He will combine his new role with his job as Arsenal’s head of youth development after being given permission by Gunners boss Arsene Wenger.

The 52-year-old Brady, who won 72 Republic caps between 1974 and 1990, will join Marco Tardelli and Fausto Rossi as part of Trapattoni's backroom team.

Trapattoni is due to start work on May 1 once he has concluded the current Austrian League season with Red Bull Salzburg, with the aim of qualifying for the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa.

Brady, whose two-year contract includes an option for a further two years, said: “I am really looking forward to working with Giovanni and trying to qualify for the finals.

“I had a meeting with Giovanni last week during which he clarified my role, and I am very happy with what he expects of me.

“He wants me to work with the players, which is of most interest to me, and also be on the bench and in the dressing room during games.

“He sees me as someone he can talk to along with Marco Tardelli.

“I will also be part of the scouting network, and will be going to as many games as I can to monitor the players in the squad and also track the progress of up-and-coming players.”

Football Association of Ireland chief executive John Delaney is naturally delighted Brady has agreed to renew his links with the Republic.

“Liam Brady is one of the greatest players this country has ever produced and he has a tremendous amount to offer,” enthused Delaney.

“He has an important role to play and I think it is a very good appointment by Giovanni Trapattoni.”

Delaney added: “I would like to thank Arsene Wenger and Arsenal for their co-operation in allowing Liam to link up with the senior international team and combine it with his role there.”