Robson takes on new Republic role

Robson was part of Steve Staunton's Republic backroom team

Sir Bobby Robson is to become an ambassador for the Football Association of Ireland.

The former England manager was part of the backroom team of previous Republic of Ireland boss Steve Staunton who lost the job in October.

Robson will contribute to the development of the Republic's high performance strategy and also assist the FAI with other projects

These include the promotion of the bid for the 2011 Uefa U21 Championships.

The Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland football governing bodies are aiming to host the U21 finals while the FAI are also hoping to host the 2011 Uefa Cup final after the Lansdowne Road redevelopment in completed.

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"I have really enjoyed working with the FAI over the past two years and the people of Ireland have been fantastic towards me," said Robson.

"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 Robson.

Chief Executive John Delaney said the FAI was pleased to see Sir Bobby continuing his involvement with 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 the FAI chief.

"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."