Anthony Barry believes his decision to quit his Republic of Ireland post for a similar role with Belgium was a "no brainer".
The Chelsea coach took many by surprise when he announced in February that he'd be leaving Stephen Kenny's backroom staff.
Barry made a significant impact during his twelve months working for the FAI, with Conor Hourihane saying this week, "It’s no secret that Anthony was fantastic.
"When he first came in he was a breath of fresh air. He had great ideas, and the way he coached was great.
“He was at Chelsea and you’re not a bad coach if you’re at a top club like Chelsea. They’ve won a few trophies and he’s been heavily involved.
🗣 'Anthony was fantastic when he first came in.'
Conor Hourihane discussed the impact that Anthony Barry had on Stephen Kenny's side before his departure. 👇
Football w/ @SkyIreland ⚽️https://t.co/yYyffVl4Pa pic.twitter.com/n3dsv6hUii— Off The Ball (@offtheball) March 21, 2022
“He was very impressive in his time here, put his stamp on the group and was brilliant. He’s gone to Belgium and we have to move on."
Barry faced the media on Wednesday ahead of his first game with the Belgians, which ironically comes against Ireland at the Aviva on Saturday.
“It's funny that we have to play against Ireland right now," he told the media on Wednesday.
"I never thought of leaving them until the question came from Roberto Martinez.
"I used to work at Wigan, when Martínez came to visit there, we started talking and we've always kept in touch. When he asked me to help him, it was a no-brainer.
"I couldn't resist the offer to work with such a coach and with such a good team. Certainly not with the World Cup coming up.”
Meanwhile, Kenny has made a couple of alterations to his squad ahead of the Belgium and Lithuania friendlies.
Bohemians goalkeeper James Talbot and QPR defender Jimmy Dunne have been called up to replace the injured Mark Travers and Darragh Lenihan.
The latter had already returned to his club Blackburn after scans revealed a groin injury. Travers picked up a minor strain in training this week, and has gone back to Bournemouth.
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