Stephen Robinson gets Northern Ireland Under-21 post

Image caption, Stephen Robinson takes over as manager of Northern Ireland's Under-21s

Former Luton Town and Bournemouth midfielder Stephen Robinson has been appointed manager of Northern Ireland's Under-21 team.

Robinson, who won seven international caps, will manage the side for the remainder of the 2013 European Championship qualifying campaign.

Ex-Celtic and Aston Villa striker Tommy Johnson will be his assistant with Marlon Beresford goalkeeping coach.

Robinson's first game will be the away qualifier in Macedonia on 29 February.

Then in September, the Under-21s have Macedonia at home followed by the final qualifier away to Denmark.

Robinson, a full-time regional coach with the Irish FA, was previously assistant manager of the NI Under-19 team.

"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," said Robinson.

"I know from my time with the Under-19s the calibre of players we have.

"I have worked with them before and know what they are capable of."