Ireland Under-21s Head Coach Jim Crawford has praised his outgoing assistant, Alan Reynolds, after he left his role with the international team.
Reynolds joined Crawford’s backroom team in July 2020 and was part of the U21s set-up that reached its first ever play-offs in September 2022.
During that time, Reynolds has held roles at Dundalk, Shelbourne, Derry City and Waterford, and was appointed manager of Bohemians in March.
After discussions between the FAI and Reynolds, both parties agreed to the departure ahead of next month’s UEFA European U21 Championship Qualifiers.
Speaking about the outgoing Reynolds, Crawford said: “Myself and Alan have a great relationship, and I can’t thank him enough for all the work and commitment he has given the Under-21s in the last four years. He’s a great asset to Irish football, and I’ve no doubt all the experience being involved in international football will serve him well at Bohemians. I’m sure my staff and players will join me in wishing Alan all the best for the future."
🗣️ “He’s a great asset to Irish football.”
Jim Crawford pays tribute as Alan Reynolds departs U21s role 🇮🇪
Wishing Alan all the best 👊
📝 https://t.co/edSM6kDs9e#COYBIG pic.twitter.com/5gRcLYMUQB
— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) August 5, 2024
Reflecting on his time, Alan Reynolds added, “It’s been an enjoyable four years working with the Under-21s, and I’m proud to have played my part in the development of some of our country’s top talents. I leave with fond memories, and all the experience of testing ourselves against top international opposition can only be a benefit for myself and Bohemians going forward.
“I wish Jim, the players and the staff all the best for the rest of the campaign and beyond.”
Work to find Reynolds’ replacement has already begun. Ireland Under-21s are in qualification action next month when they face Turkey away on September 6 before returning to Ireland to take on Latvia on September 10.
Director of Football Marc Canham added: “I’d like to thank Alan for the excellent work he has done alongside Jim Crawford in the last four years. Alan is an excellent coach who will continue to be a great benefit to Irish football. We wish him all the best with Bohemians.”
