Published Wednesday, 08 February 2012
Billy McKinlay (right) pictured with Fulham boss Martin Jol. (© Getty)
He'll keep his job at Craven Cottage - where he's been since 2004 - but has said he'll be honoured to work with Michael O'Neill's side during international breaks.
"I have known Michael O'Neill for over 20 years, since our days at Dundee United together, and it will be great to work alongside him," McKinlay said.
"I'm excited by this opportunity to work with the squad, as there are a lot of talented players from Northern Ireland and I am looking forward to our first game against Norway."
We’re up against top class opposition in our World Cup qualifying group and I believe we have top class coaches in place - which put us in the best position possible to compete against some of the best sides in the world.
Michael O’Neill
Former Lisburn Distillery manager and current St Johnstone assistant manager Tommy Wright has also been appointed to the backroom staff as goalkeeping coach.
"Everyone knows that I'm very passionate about Northern Ireland and I am thrilled to be working alongside Michael O'Neill again," Wright said.
"He's a fantastic young manager and I am sure he can inspire the players ahead of the World Cup qualifiers in September."
O'Neill officially took up the manager's job with Northern Ireland last week, after Nigel Worthington stepped down at the end of last year.
He added: "I've known Billy and Tommy since my playing days and have watched as they both forged very successful careers in coaching.
"Both guys have tremendous reputations within football and that speaks volumes."
McKinlay and Wright have both signed two-year contracts and will take up their positions on 13 February.