Former international midfielder Ray Houghton has become an FAI Ambassador and takes up his duties this week by attending the FAI's Festival of Football in Mayo.
Houghton, who made his debut in Jack Charlton's first match in charge of Ireland against Wales in March 1986, went on to win 73 caps over the next 11 years. He is best remembered for scoring the only goal in Ireland's 1-0 wins over England at Euro '88 and Italy at World Cup '94.
During a distinguished playing career he also won English League and FA Cup winners medals at Liverpool and a League Cup winners' medal with Aston Villa. Houghton was also part of the three man panel that recruited Giovanni Trapattoni to be Republic of Ireland senior team manager
In this position Houghton will use his extensive contacts and international profile to promote Irish soccer while assisting the Association in delivering its commercial and corporate goals.
"I am delighted to be given this opportunity to help promote the excellent work the FAI is doing across Ireland and I am really looking forward to the role," said Houghton.
Chief Executive John Delaney said the FAI is pleased that Ray Houghton has agreed to become an ambassador for the Association.
He said: "Ray Houghton will be a fantastic ambassador for the FAI and Irish soccer. It is a tremendous bonus for the association that he is now part of our team and we can only benefit from having a person of his quality and experience on board."