Alan Kelly is the highest ranked FIFA referee (Category 2) in the Republic of Ireland Kelly handed UEFA Cup encounter

Irish referees have made a significant breakthrough with the appointment of Alan Kelly to the UEFA Cup fixture between FC Zurich and Hamburg.

This appointment for the round of 32 represents is the first for an Irish referee at this advanced stage of a major tournament in more than 25 years. Former Dublin referee, John Carpenter, was the last Irish official to figure at this level.
 
Due to changes made to the UEFA referees categories in the 1990s, Irish appointments have until now ended at the group stage. 

Kelly will be assisted by Damien McGrath (Mayo) and Barry McDonnell (Louth) for the 14 February fixture. Anthony Buttimer (Cork) will act as the fourth official.

Meanwhile, David McKeon has been appointed to referee the friendly international between Wales and Norway in Wrexham on 6 February. David will be assisted by Martin Moloney and David Wogan.