Anthony Barry has been confirmed as the new member of Stephen Kenny’s backroom team, replacing Damien Duff who stepped down from his role earlier this year.
Barry will continue as first-team coach at Chelsea and will meet up with the Ireland squad ahead of next month’s World Cup qualifiers.
In a brief statement, Barry said: “I’m delighted to join the Republic of Ireland coaching staff ahead of the start of the Fifa 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign.
“The opportunity to work in international football is something I’m thoroughly looking forward to and I’m looking forward to working with manager Stephen Kenny, his staff and the squad. I’d also like to thank Chelsea for helping facilitate this opportunity.”
A former Fleetwood Town, Accrington Stanley and Yeovil Town player, Barry began his coaching career with Accrington following his retirement as a player. He then joined the coaching staff at Wigan Athletic before moving to Chelsea where he was appointed as first-team coach in 2019 after the appointment of Frank Lampard as manager of the side.
Barry remained at the club following Lampard’s sacking last month. He is held in high regard at the London club, acting as ‘the middleman’ between the players and new Blues boss Thomas Tuchel. Liverpool born Barry has been on the radar of Stephen Kenny since Duff’s shock departure in January.
“I’d like to welcome Anthony to the Republic of Ireland team, he is an innovative coach with an energetic style and is someone I have been aware of for a few years now,” said former Dundalk manager Kenny.
“The skillset Anthony brings will complement the existing coaching team and I look forward to him joining up in March ahead of the World Cup qualifiers.”
