Brian Sorensen Joins Republic of Ireland Women's Team as Assistant Coach

Brian Sorensen is set for a swift return to the international stage, with the former Everton manager poised to join the Republic of Ireland women’s set-up for their World Cup play-off qualifiers later this year.

He will step in as assistant coach, forming part of a refreshed backroom team alongside Liverpool coach Amber Whiteley. The pair will link up with manager Carla Ward as Ireland chase a place at the Women’s World Cup.

Sorensen will combine the role with his current job as technical director of Aston Villa women, remaining in position at the WSL club and joining up with Ireland during international windows. Ward, who previously went head-to-head with Sorensen when she managed Villa against his Everton side, will now have him in her corner as Ireland enter a high-stakes autumn.

Play-off Qualifiers

Ireland face Kazakhstan in the first round of play-off qualifying, a two-legged tie scheduled for 9 and 13 October. The margins are tight. The schedule is brutal. And with a World Cup spot on the line, the impact of this new coaching ticket will be judged very quickly.