Gilmartin appointed Republic of Ireland under-21 goalkeeping coach

Bristol City goalkeeper Rene Gilmartin has been confirmed as the permanent goalkeeper coach for the Republic of Ireland U21 team.

The 32-year-old is currently the third choice keeper at Ashton Gate as well as having some coaching responsibilities with the Championship side.

The Dubliner has had a lengthy career in the English Football League with Walsall, Colchester United, Watford and Plymouth Argyle.

He was also capped once at U21 level for the Republic of Ireland as well as spending a period in the League of Ireland with St Patrick’s Athletic under Liam Buckley in 2013 and 2014.

"It's a massively proud moment for me,” Gilmartin said, speaking to the FAI website.

"I played for the Ireland U-21s when I was starting out at Walsall and now, to have the opportunity to coach the goalkeepers is perfect for me.

"We've got some fantastic talent coming through and it's been great to work with the likes of Caoimhin Kelleher, Gavin Bazunu and Conor Kearns during my time with the squad so far."

Gilmartin joined up with the U21 squad for the October games against Iceland and Italy and he is set to link up with them once again this Sunday ahead of the qualifiers against Armenia and Sweden.