Ex-Luton duo take U21 reins

HATTERS: Rising managerial star Stephen Robinson has been appointed boss of Northern Ireland’s U21 team.

The former Luton Town midfielder, who won seven caps for his country will manage the side for the remainder of the 2013 European Championship qualifying campaign.

Robinson is a full-time regional coach with the Irish FA and was previously assistant manager of the U19 team.

He said: “With so many good young players coming through our ranks here in Northern Ireland, it is an exciting time to be involved in the set-up.

“I know from my time with the U19s the calibre of players we have. I have worked with them before and know what they are capable of.”

Fellow former Hatter Marlon Beresford will be the goalkeeping coach and Robinson will be assisted by ex-Celtic and Aston Villa striker Tommy Johnson.

His first game in charge will be the away qualifier in Macedonia on February, 29, then in September they will host Macedonia before travelling to Denmark for their final qualifier.