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

Brian Sorensen is set to step back into international football this year, with the former Everton manager joining the Republic of Ireland women’s set-up for their crucial Women’s World Cup play-off qualifiers.

The Dane will come in as an assistant coach, working alongside Liverpool coach Amber Whiteley in a revamped backroom team designed for the pressure of knockout football. His arrival adds another experienced voice to a dugout already led by Carla Ward, who knows Sorensen well from their touchline battles in the Women’s Super League when she was in charge of Aston Villa.

Sorensen will not be leaving club football behind. He is expected to retain his role as technical director with Aston Villa women, linking up with Ireland during international breaks. It is a dual responsibility that underlines his growing reputation in the women’s game and Ireland’s determination to squeeze every ounce of expertise into their camp.

Upcoming Matches

The assignment is clear and unforgiving. Ireland face Kazakhstan in a two-legged first-round play-off, with the ties scheduled for 9 and 13 October. Over 180 minutes, a place in the next phase of World Cup qualifying will be on the line.

For Ward, it means adding a coach who has prepared teams for the highest domestic level in England. For Sorensen, it is a chance to influence a national side on the brink of a defining window.