Brian Sorensen Joins Republic of Ireland Women's Team for World Cup Play-Offs

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 campaign later this year.

Sorensen is expected to come in as assistant coach, teaming up with Liverpool coach Amber Whiteley on the staff. The move adds significant top-flight experience to Ireland’s bench at a critical point in their qualification push.

He will combine the new role with his current position as technical director of Aston Villa Women, linking up with Ireland only during international windows. It means a reunion of sorts with Carla Ward, now Ireland manager, who previously went head-to-head with Sorensen in the Women’s Super League when she was in charge of Villa and he led Everton.

World Cup Play-offs

Ireland face Kazakhstan in the first round of the Women’s World Cup play-offs, a two-legged tie scheduled for 9 and 13 October.

The stakes are obvious. So is the intent: Ireland want every edge they can get.