Irish-American businessman and owner of the NFL Pittsburgh Steelers football team Dan Rooney is expected to be named as US ambassador to Ireland within weeks.

Rooney (76) will succeed Thomas C Foley, who recently returned home to the US. Rooney is a co-founder of the Ireland Fund charity with Sir Anthony O'Reilly. When asked by US media recently about whether he would be interested in the job, he said: "I have the credentials, there's no doubt about that."

The Rooney family roots are in Newry, Co Down, and he is a frequent visitor to Ireland. He was an early supporter and campaigner for Barack Obama and presented the president with the game ball following the AFC championship game in January.

Democratic Congressman Mike Doyle has said he believes Rooney would be a great choice of US envoy to Ireland. "I can't think of a finer ambassador for the United States to Ireland than Dan Rooney. Between the work they've done with the Ireland Institute and Rooney's involvement with work in peace and reconciliation..." Doyle said.

Rooney, an avid flyer, has been credited with widely contributing to peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland. He received an honorary Commander of the British Empire by the Queen for his role in the Northern peace process. He also created the Rooney Prize for Irish Literature in 1976, an annual award for Irish writers under 40 years old.

A spokeswoman for the department of foreign affairs said it had not been informed who would be taking over as US ambassador to Ireland. President Barack Obama will appoint the chosen candidate. "It's a matter for the US administration to make the announcement. We look forward to working with the new ambassador."

Rooney is the son of Pittsburgh Steelers founder and former owner Art Rooney. The team recently won the Superbowl. He was appointed team president in 1975 and was given a great deal of power by his father. During his tenure, he has implemented a philosophy and management style that emphasises open, practical and efficient management. He was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000 for his success as an owner.

He is also credited for coming up with the "Rooney Rule," which requires NFL teams with head coaching and general manager vacancies to interview at least one minority candidate.