John O'Shea: Ireland Appoints Ex-Manchester United Defender As Assistant Coach

Ex-Manchester United defender John O'Shea has been appointed as an assistant coach by the Republic of Ireland.

He joins manager Stephen Kenny's backroom team after working with the Republic of Ireland Under-21 side for almost three years.

"I'm delighted to join the senior international team coaching staff and look forward to working with Stephen and the rest of the backroom team," said O'Shea who completed his Pro Licence coaching course in December.

"It was always an honour to play for my country and put on the green shirt so to join the coaching staff and work with the current group of players and staff is an amazing opportunity for me.

"I'd like to thank Jim Crawford and the Ireland Under-21 backroom team, who've been fantastic to work with over the last few years, and wish them every success after such a strong qualification campaign last year."

The Republic of Ireland begin their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign at home to France on March 27 and the 41-year-old is expected to combine his new role with his full-time duties at Stoke City.

O'Shea played in both Euro 2012 and Euro 2016 and won 118 international caps, the third-highest tally of any Republic of Ireland player.

He had a decorated club career at United, winning five Premier League titles and a Champions League during more than a decade at Old Trafford.