The Republic of Ireland have appointed Icelandic manager Heimir Hallgrimsson as their new boss.
The former Iceland and Jamaica boss is the permanent replacement for Stephen Kenny and has come in following John O’Shea’s interim spell in charge.
Hallgrimsson was joint head coach of Iceland when they embarrassed England at Euro 2016, dumping the Three Lions out in the last 16 with a shock 2-1 win.
He also led Iceland to qualify for the 2018 World Cup and helped them to their highest ever FIFA ranking of 18th.
The appointment of 57-year-old Hallgrimsson brings an end to Ireland’s eight-month search for a new manager.
A statement from the Football Association of Ireland read: “The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has today announced the appointment of Heimir Hallgrímsson as the new Head Coach of the Senior Men’s National Team.
“The former head coach of Iceland and Jamaica will lead the team for the UEFA Nations League and FIFA World Cup 2026 campaigns. Hallgrimsson will assume charge of his first competitive fixture this September as Ireland face England in the UEFA Nations League.”
The former Iceland boss will be unveiled at an official press conference at the Aviva Stadium on Thursday.
In between his roles with Jamaica and Iceland, Hallgrimsson gained club experience as head coach for the Qatar Stars League club Al-Arabi between 2018 and 2021.
Commenting on his Ireland appointment, Hallgrimsson said: “It is an honour to be appointed Head Coach of the Ireland Senior Men’s National Team. Ireland is rightly a proud footballing nation which has consistently produced talented players and enjoyed many memorable moments at major international tournaments.
“We have a young and exciting team that has genuine potential. I am looking forward to working closely with the players to help coach and guide them towards improved performances and results ensuring we qualify and compete at major tournaments on a regular basis.
“We have important and exciting games coming up in the UEFA Nations League later this year and a massive FIFA World Cup qualification campaign coming up next year.
“Finally, I am also looking forward to getting to know the people of Ireland and in particular the wonderful fans of Irish football.
“It is my responsibility to coach, prepare and develop our team as best as possible to deliver results on the pitch and to make our supporters happy and proud.”