Alan Bennett appointed head of academy coaching at Cork City

Alan Bennett, left, with RTE's Tony O'Donoghue during the 2025 Sports Direct Men's FAI Cup Final match between Shamrock Rovers and Cork City at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Alan Bennett has been appointed as Cork City's Head of Academy Coaching.

Bennett is the latest appointment in the domestic game to be funded through the League of Ireland Academy Investment Programme, supported by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport and Sport Ireland.

The former Ireland U21 international, who captained City as a player, will work closely with Academy Director Colin O’Brien, whose role is also supported by the programme.

Bennett said: “I’m extremely proud to take on the role of Head of Coaching at Cork City FC Academy. Having come through the club’s academy and represented City as a player and captain, this is a club that means a great deal to me. 

“Cork City FC has a proud history, a strong identity and a reputation that extends well beyond the League of Ireland. The academy has a strong foundation, and my ambition is to build on that and continue to raise standards.

“I’d also like to acknowledge Minister Patrick O’Donovan TD, Minister Charlie McConalogue TD and Sport Ireland for their continued investment in the development of League of Ireland academies. I’m grateful for the trust placed in me. I’m looking forward to getting started and achieving our ambitions together."

O’Brien added: “I’m delighted to welcome Alan back to the club. This new role is another important step on the journey we are taking with the Club’s academy.

"Having worked with Alan before, I know he is a good fit for the Club and what we want to do. His experience will be invaluable to our coaches within each of our teams in the Academy, and we are looking forward to getting straight to work.”