Soccer:The FAI has confirmed that Paul Doolin will take charge of the under-18 and under-19 national teams. The Dubliner assumed control of the under-23s earlier this year.
Seán McCaffrey had previously worked as head coach of the under-19 and under-17 sides for almost seven years but his contract is not being renewed. While Doolin will coach the older age group, John Morling is to take charge of the under-17s as well as the under-16s.
There have been rumours that Noel King would be given the under-19s, in addition to the under-21s which he took over from Don Givens during the summer, but Doolin successfully interviewed for the post.
“It’s an honour for me to be appointed,” the former UCD, Drogheda United and Cork City manager said today. “The chance to work with the best young players in the country is a fantastic opportunity and it is one that I am very much looking forward to.”
Doolin’s first task will be in the under-19 European Championship qualifiers, with Ireland due to meet Bulgaria next month. The under-18s aren’t in action until next May, when they take part in the Slovakia Cup friendly tournament.