TOMMY’S MISSION
New Northern Ireland Under 21 assistant coach Tommy Johnson will be keeping a close eye on some emerging talent
TOMMY Johnson is hoping to unearth “one or two hidden gems” as he embarks on a new role with Northern Ireland.
Johnson was last week named as assistant to new Under 21 manager Stephen Robinson.
Robinson succeeds Steve Beaglehole who was in charge for the past three-and-a-half years.
Former striker Johnson – who won a Scottish Premier League title with Celtic in 2001 – will be based in Nottingham where he keep a watchful eye over Northern Ireland’s emerging talent.
He will also be scouting the mainland for youngsters who may be eligible to play under the IFA banner.
“The Under 21s are a vital part of international football – these are the players you hope will progress to senior level,” Johnson told the News Letter yesterday.
“I played for England’s U21s many years ago and the ambition was to make the leap onto the senior stage.
“It is an integral part in the development of young players and they learn so much at youth level. This helps them to make the transition to the senior side if they get they get the call.
“I will be based in Nottingham which is pretty central for watching players on the mainland.
“I will be out and about as much as possible. Obviously I have the coaching role but I will be helping Robbo out in between games.
“I will also be doing a bit of scouting for Michael (O’Neill).
“You are always on the lookout for players who are eligible for Northern Ireland.
“There are a few hidden gems out there who hopefully we can locate and see if they qualify for Northern Ireland.”
Johnson – who was first team coach at Notts County for three years – admits the Northern Ireland job “came out of the blue”.
He added: “I am really looking forward to it.
“I got a phone call from Robbo and he told me Michael had offered him the Under 21s job and he wanted me to join his team.
“It is a privilege and honour to have been asked and I was delighted to say yes.
“I was first team coach at Notts County for three years so I have the experience there. I am also on the verge of competing my Pro Licence badges so this is a good progression step for me.”
Johnson joins former Northern Ireland midfielder Robinson and new goalkeeping coach Marlon Beresford in the Under 21 set-up.
“It is exciting to be involved with Robbo and Marlon,” Johnson said.
“I am delighted Robbo got the job. He has worked on the coaching education side of things for years.
“He has experience at U17, U18 and U19 level and there is nobody better equipped for this role.
“He also played over 500 games in England so he knows that it’s about.”
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Weather for Belfast
Tuesday 29 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 13 C to 21 C
Wind Speed: 7 mph
Wind direction: South west
Tomorrow
Light showers
Temperature: 11 C to 20 C
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