Robson appointed FAI ambassador

The FAI has appointed Bobby Robson as an ambassador for the association.

Robson, who worked alongside former manager Steve Staunton as an International Football Consultant, will be involved in bringing through "elite" young players at the National Academy at Abbotstown, which has yet to be established.

He will also offer "guidance and support" to technical staff, according to an FAI statement, while he will have a role in the FAI's joint bid with the Irish Football Association (IFA) to host the 2011 Uefa U21 Championships and the 2011 Uefa Cup Final.

"I have really enjoyed working with the FAI over the past two years and the people of Ireland have been fantastic towards me. I am particularly delighted that I am going to be involved in the development of elite young players through the High Performance strategy and the new Academy," said the 75-year-old last night.

Chief executive John Delaney said retaining Robson was a big boost for the association.

"Over the past two years we have seen at first hand the many attributes of Sir Bobby Robson and we know he has a lot to offer us, particularly in the development of our High Performance strategy and the new National Academy at Abbotstown," said Delaney.

"He is a fantastic ambassador for the game and it is a tremendous plus for the association that he is still part of our team."