Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Staunton has moved to strengthen ties between the eircom League and the international set-up, handing Pat Devlin a crucial role in the process.
The Bray Wanderers manager was today named as 'B' International team manager and eircom League coordinator and will be charged with scouring the domestic leagues, earmarking talent for potential international opportunities.
Largely ignored during Mick McCarthy's reign, home-based players have started to break through in recent seasons with Glen Crowe and Jason Byrne winning full caps under caretaker boss Don Givens and Brian Kerr.
Staunton is keen to identify talent that may have slipped through the net, enlisting Devlin's help to ensure no stone is left unturned.
"Pat will report on talent in the eircom League and through the re-instatement of the 'B' internationals, provide a development opportunity for home based players," Staunton said.
"The 'B' internationals can also provide a focal point for players over the age of 21 who have yet to graduate to full senior level . . . getting closer ties with the eircom League should contribute positively to what we're trying to achieve."
Devlin, who also acts as Damien Duff's agent, said he was delighted to be part of Staunton's management team.
"The development of home based players is very much part of Stephen's long-term plan," he said. "We hope that with more focus on the League we can provide more opportunities for home based players to come through to senior international level."
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