Dundalk goalkeeping coach Steve Williams has described the chance to work with the Republic of Ireland squad as an "amazing opportunity."
Stephen Kenny got in touch with Williams after Irish goalkeeping coach Alan Kelly opted against travelling to Dublin for Wednesday night’s Nations League game against Bulgaria.
Kelly, who suffers from asthma, said that health concerns were behind his decision because of the COVID-19 cases in the Ireland squad.
Matt Doherty and James McClean both tested positive for coronavirus after Sunday's 1-0 defeat to Wales, a game Callum Robinson and Alan Browne both missed due to positive tests last week.
Williams worked with Kenny during his six seasons at Dundalk and went from training at Oriel Park on Monday morning to Abbottstown in the evening for a training session with the Ireland squad.
Williams told Dundalk FC.com: "It was a crazy day yesterday, one session I was with Dundalk, and then a few hours later I was with the national team.
"It’s an amazing opportunity for me, personally, and when Stephen called it was a straight yes.
"I’m really looking forward to seeing the quality in the Irish camp first-hand, especially the goalkeepers."
🇮🇪 Lilywhites GK coach Steve Williams enjoyed something of a manic Monday after answering Stephen Kenny’s call to help out with the Republic of Ireland squad ahead of their Nations League clash with Bulgaria.https://t.co/kkSnErxeiK#CmonTheTown | 📸 Sportsfile pic.twitter.com/Zm87nak5aZ
— Dundalk FC (@DundalkFC) November 17, 2020
Williams will be surrounded by a few familiar faces in the Irish setup with physio Danny Miller, former assistant manager Ruaidhri Higgins, and former sports therapist Sam Miller all involved under Stephen Kenny.
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
