Malahide - Roy Keane says he is excited about the chance to work with Ireland's national football team after taking up his post as assistant coach.
The former Manchester United midfielder will work alongside coach Martin O'Neill.
The outspoken Keane walked out of the 2002 World Cup without kicking a ball after denouncing Ireland's preparations for the tournament and recently criticized senior members of the national team following their poor display at the 2012 European Championship.
However, Keane has patched up his differences with Irish Football Association officials, saying "some would see me as a threat or a troublemaker but Martin has seen something in me that can help him."