Killarney man takes over as coach of Newcastle United Under 21s

The 37-year-old is part of Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill's backroom coaching team.

O'Carroll will leave his role as assistant to Stephen Robinson at Scottish Premiership side St Mirren to take charge of the Magpies' youngsters.

The Irishman will continue his role within the Northern Ireland setup and will be assisted by current Head of Coach Development at Newcastle United, Jack Ross.

Speaking in an interview posted to the club's website, O'Carroll said: "I'm really excited to come in.

"It's a role I'm really looking forward to getting stuck into. The club speaks for itself in terms of the size, stature and fanbase.

"It's a really exciting time now as well with the ownership and everything that is planned going forward. The opportunity to come in is something I would've never expected, but when it come across my desk, it was a really exciting one and a quick process."

🤝 Diarmuid O'Carroll joins as U21s Lead Coach.

Welcome to #NUFC, Diarmuid. ⤵️

— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) September 24, 2024

Paul Mitchell, Newcastle United’s sporting director, said: "Diarmuid is a very highly regarded coach and is a great fit for the profile we have been looking to recruit. 

"He has amassed a wealth of experience during the formative years of his coaching career, working across youth, men’s and women’s club football and at international level. 

"The Academy is a cornerstone of our sporting strategy, and Diarmuid’s role is a crucial one in preparing players for the next significant step in their development journeys. 

"The Academy has produced exceptional players over recent years, and we look forward to supporting Steve Harper, Diarmuid and our Academy team in continuing to build on that excellent record."

O'Carroll was a Republic of Ireland Under-21 international and won Irish Premiership winners' medals with Belfast sides Crusaders and Cliftonville during his playing career.