James Scott appointed new Republic of Ireland under-17 manager

The FAI have confirmed that James Scott will take up the role of Ireland under-17s coach vacated by Colin Bell last month.

The Tipperary North development officer will prepare the elite under-17 squad for a double-header of friendlies in Belgium next month.

Bell resigned as Ireland manager in June but had already given up his secondary role in charge of the 17s earlier the same month, while the senior post is yet to be filled.

“I’m honoured to be taking on this role,” Scott told the association’s official website.

“It is a very exciting time for women’s football and I’m very much looking forward to being part of the continued development of women players at the top level of the game here.

“I will be a fresh face to a lot of people and with that I’m hoping to bring fresh ideas and a different range of experiences.”

FAI high performance director Ruud Dokter added: “I am very happy that James is to join the team. He has a proven track record in working with and developing young talented players.

“I think this is a very good time for him to step up to this level. He will bring a lot to the role. James is very knowledgeable and full of energy and I feel he will bring a new dynamism to the position.”

Ireland finished second in their Euro 2019 elite qualifying round group behind Germany following a draw with Norway and victory over Scotland.