Givens steps down as under-21 manager

The FAI have announced that Don Givens will step down as under-21 international manager after almost ten years in the role.

He will take up a new position overseeing the FAI’s UK-based scouting network.

Speaking today, Wim Koevermans, the FAI High Performance Director with responsibility for underage international teams said: "I would like to wish Don well in new role as Chief Scout in the UK and thank him for his time with the under-21 squad. After almost a decade in charge of this age level, the time is now right to introduce a new manager and we expect to make this appointment before the next under-21 match on August 10."

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni said: "Since my appointment I have worked with Don in his role as under-21 manager and he played an important part in developing and identifying new talent for the senior squad. I look forward to continuing that relationship in his new capacity as Chief Scout in the UK."

Don Givens said: "I have enjoyed the job for ten years now and would like to thank all of the people who assisted me in the role over that time. I am looking forward to taking up my new position and would like to wish whoever is named the new under-21 manager all the very best in the job."