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Dundalk goalkeeping coach Williams happy to lend a hand to Ireland

Dundalk goalkeeping coach Steve Williams has described the chance to work with the Republic of Ir...



Dundalk goalkeeping coach Will...
Soccer

Dundalk goalkeeping coach Williams happy to lend a hand to Ireland

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."

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.

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Alan Kelly Dundalk FAI Republic Of Ireland Stephen Kenny Steve Williams