Ex-Chelsea keeper Carlo Cudicini joins Republic of Ireland coaching staff

Former Chelsea goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini has joined the Republic of Ireland Under 21s' coaching staff ahead of this week's European Under-21 Championship qualifier against Andorra.

The 41-year-old, who last played for MLS side Los Angeles Galaxy in 2013, will fill the vacancy left by the retired Alan O'Neill.

"His experience will be a great help to us," Ireland Under-21s boss Noel King said.

"It won't be just goalkeeping - we'll include him as we do with all our staff in the preparation. We'll value his views and hopefully that'll add strength to us."

Ireland's home match against Andorra at the Waterford Regional Sports Centre is the first qualifier for Poland 2017.