Brian Kerr: Ex-Republic of Ireland boss part of John O’Shea’s coaching team for March games

Former Republic of Ireland boss Brian Kerr has returned to the international set-up for the March friendlies against Belgium and Switzerland.

O’Shea has also brought in his former Republic team-mate Glenn Whelan as assistant coach.

The Republic host Belgium on 23 March and Switzerland on 26 March.

O’Shea, who won 118 caps for the Republic, was an assistant coach under previous manager Stephen Kenny and, before that, with the Under-21 side.

He will take charge for the two friendlies with the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) confirming Kenny’s permanent replacement will be appointed in “early April”.

Former Manchester United defender O’Shea will be supported by Crystal Palace assistant coach Paddy McCarthy and Whelan, who won 91 caps for his country.

Rene Gilmartin also steps up from his current role as the Republic’s Under-21 goalkeeper coach to support the senior team alongside analyst Martin Doyle.

Athletic performance coach Damien Doyle and analyst Stephen Rice will continue in their roles for the Belgium and Switzerland games.

“Brian brings with him a wealth of experience we’ll be able to tap into during the camp and his passion for Irish football and the Ireland national team is well known and will be a welcome addition to the group,” O’Shea said of Kerr.

“Glenn was an unbelievable servant for his country during his distinguished playing career and we’ll be delighted to welcome him back into the international fold as a coach, having recently spent time with the Ireland Under-16s during the Victory Shield.

“Rene Gilmartin steps up from the Ireland U21s set-up where he has worked since 2019 and so, crucially, already has a great relationship with our current goalkeeper group.”