Soccer-Duff steps down from Ireland coaching role

Former Chelsea winger Damien Duff has stepped down from his role as one of Ireland's assistant coaches, the country's football association (FAI) said. The 41-year-old, who was capped 100 times by Ireland, was appointed to manager Stephen Kenny's staff in August last year alongside Keith Andrews. The FAI did not give a reason for Duff's departure.

Former Chelsea winger Damien Duff has stepped down from his role as one of Ireland's assistant coaches, the country's football association (FAI) said. The 41-year-old, who was capped 100 times by Ireland, was appointed to manager Stephen Kenny's staff in August last year alongside Keith Andrews.

The FAI did not give a reason for Duff's departure. "I want to thank Kenny for the opportunity he gave me to coach with the senior Ireland team and I wish Stephen, Keith and the players all the very best of luck for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers," Duff said in a statement.

Kenny is winless in eight games since replacing Mick McCarthy as Ireland manager in April last year. Ireland face Serbia, Luxembourg, Portugal and Azerbaijan later this year in qualification matches for the 2022 World Cup.