Kevin Horlock has been appointed assistant manager of Northern Ireland’s Under-21 side.

The former Ipswich Town midfielder, who was first team coach at Suffolk non-league side Needham Market last season, will work under Stephen Robinson, beginning with tomorrow’s home match against Denmark Under-21s at Stangmore Park.

He will also be working with Jim Magilton, the former Town player and manager now the Elite Performance Director for his home nation.

Robinson said: “Kevin has been appointed as our full-time assistant manager and will be involved in all upcoming fixtures. He has played at the top level for teams such as Swindon Town, West Ham United, Ipswich Town and Manchester City.

“His success gives the boys something to aspire too, Kevin knows what football for Northern Ireland is all about having played for the team himself and he will bring a vast amount of experience to the role as well as a great number of contacts.

“A major benefit of having Kevin on board is that he is currently based in London, which is a great advantage as the majority of our squad are playing football over in the mainland.”

Horlock will remain in his role at Needham Market where he is reserve team manager.