Dean Kiely appointed as Republic of Ireland goalkeeping coach

Republic of Ireland boss Stephen Kenny has been handed a welcome boost as Dean Kiely has joined his backroom team as goalkeeping coach.

Kiely, also a goalkeeping coach at Premier League side Crystal Palace, is a former Irish international and will take over from the outgoing Alan Kelly.

Kiely will remain in his current role as Palace goalkeeping coach while linking up with the Irish set-up during international windows.

"It was a tremendous honour to represent Ireland as a player and now, to get the opportunity to represent my country as a coach, it brings up exactly the same emotions," Dean Kiely told the FAI’s communications department.

"I've always watched from afar as a fan and I really believe there are exciting times ahead in Irish football.

“We've got a real blend of experience and young players with potential coming into the squad.

“It is something I'm desperate to be a part of and I'm already looking forward to the qualifiers in March."

Stephen Kenny added: “Dean has had an exceptional career both as a goalkeeper and a coach, he has been coaching international goalkeepers in the Premier League for many seasons now.

"His sheer enthusiasm and his sense of pride at the prospect of representing Ireland is very uplifting, and the current crop of talented goalkeepers in the squad will benefit from his expertise and experience.”