Dean Kiely has replaced Alan Kelly as the Republic of Ireland's goalkeeping coach ahead of the World Cup qualifiers. 

The former international, who won 11 caps and was part of the 2002 World Cup squad in Japan and South Korea, will work under Stephen Kenny.

Kiely is the current goalkeeping coach with Crystal Palace and will combine that role with the international job.

The 50-year-old made over 750 appearances during a club career which saw him line out in the Premier League with Charlton Athletic, West Bromwich Albion and Portsmouth.

He made his debut in goal for the Republic of Ireland in a European Championship play-off against Turkey back in 1999.

Kiely is thrilled to get the opportunity.

"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.

"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."

Stephen Kenny has welcomed this new appointment to his backroom staff.

“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.”

Alan Kelly followed Damien Duff in departing the Republic of Ireland backroom team earlier this month.

The Republic of Ireland's World Cup qualifying campaign begins away to Serbia on March 24th, before Luxembourg visit the Aviva Stadium three days later.