New U21 boss King sets sights on Estonia

NOEL KING yesterday expressed his delight after his appointment as manager of the Republic of Ireland U21 team.

The former Shamrock Rovers, Derry City, Limerick and Finn Harps boss will take charge of the U21s for the first time on August 10 when the team welcome Estonia at Tallaght Stadium for a European Championship qualifying match against Estonia.

King was named coach of the Irish women’s senior team in 2000 and guided the U17s women’s side to second place at the European Championships and qualification for September’s World Cup finals last month. He will continue his role as manager of the U17s women’s side for the duration of the World Cup, with International Performance Director Wim Koevermans taking temporary charge of the U21 squad for matches away to Switzerland on September 3 and Turkey on September 7.

King replaces Don Givens, who stood down from the post after almost 10 years in March.

Givens is now the FAI’s chief scout in Britain.

Reflecting on his appointment, King said: “I am delighted to take on the exciting role of head coach with the Republic of Ireland U21 team.

“I have been involved with the women’s squads for 10 years and I have thoroughly enjoyed having the opportunity to help develop women’s football in Ireland.

“I would like to thank everybody I have worked with over the last 10 years for their magnificent support. This new role will see me work with players at a vital stage in their careers and it is a challenge that I am immensely looking forward to, starting with the match against Estonia in Tallaght on August 10.”

Koevermans was glowing in his praise for King, stating: “Noel has achieved tremendous success during his long career and he has rightly cemented his reputation as one of the best coaches in Ireland.

“His recent success in guiding the Women’s U17 squad to the World Cup is a testament to his abilities. He has plenty of experience, both at club and international level, and that will be important as he seeks to develop the next generation of young stars.

“I congratulate him on this appointment as he looks to bring his experience and coaching expertise to an important area of Irish football.”

The role of women’s senior coach will now be advertised with the current women’s U19 manager Sue Ronan taking charge on an interim basis.