YORK City legend Dean Kiely has been appointed as the new Republic of Ireland goalkeeping coach.

Kiely will combine his role with the national team alongside his work with Premier League side Crystal Palace.

The move comes as the Republic of Ireland prepare for the start of their FIFA 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign in March, looking to reach the tournament for the first time since 2002.

The breakthrough in Kiely’s career came at York as he made his professional first-team debut for City after signing in 1990.

He would go on make 239 appearances for the Minstermen over the course of six seasons and was part of the side which secured promotion to the Second Division through the play-offs in 1992/93.

The keeper also recently earned a spot in the ‘All Time Bootham Crescent XI’, as voted for by York fans.

After leaving City, Kiely would go on to feature in the top two divisions in subsequent spells at Bury, Charlton Athletic, Portsmouth, Luton Town and West Bromwich Albion, racking up over 750 professional appearances during the course of his career.

He also earned 11 caps for the Republic of Ireland from 1999 to 2008.

“It was a tremendous honour to represent Ireland as a player and now, to get the opportunity to represent my country as a coach, it brings up exactly the same emotions,” said Kiely.

“I’ve always watched from afar as a fan and I really believe there are exciting times ahead in Irish football.

“We’ve got a real blend of experience and young players with potential coming into the squad.

“It is something I’m desperate to be a part of and I’m already looking forward to the qualifiers in March.”

Ireland boss Stephen Kenny said: “Dean has had an exceptional career both as a goalkeeper and a coach, he has been coaching international goalkeepers in the Premier League for many seasons now.

“His sheer enthusiasm and his sense of pride at the prospect of representing Ireland is very uplifting, and the current crop of talented goalkeepers in the squad will benefit from his expertise and experience.”