Northern Ireland: Schofield becomes U21 boss

John Schofield
Author: Nigel GouldPublished 27th Jul 2021

John Schofield is the new manager of Northern Ireland’s Under-21 men’s team.

Schofield, who had been a part-time assistant coach with the U21s for over a year, joins the U21s set-up permanently from EFL Championship side Peterborough United where he was working with the U23s.

“I’m excited for the challenge ahead,” said Schofield. “The opportunity to become manager of a national team doesn’t come round very often so I am delighted to have been chosen by the Irish FA to lead this talented group of young men.”

The 56-year-old takes over from Andy Crosby, who had been interim boss of the U21s since Ian Baraclough stepped up to become senior men’s team manager last summer.

Crosby left the U21s role last month to take up a permanent post with Port Vale. Schofield worked alongside Crosby as part of his backroom team during his tenure with the U21s.