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

The Republic of Ireland have moved to sharpen their touchline for a crucial autumn, bringing in former Everton manager Brian Sorensen as assistant coach for their Women's World Cup play-off qualifiers.

Sorensen will slot into the staff alongside Liverpool coach Amber Whiteley, adding another experienced voice to a dugout bracing for a high‑stakes two-legged tie against Kazakhstan on 9 and 13 October.

It is understood Sorensen will continue in his role as technical director with Aston Villa Women, combining club and country duties by linking up with Ireland during international windows. The dual role underlines his stock within the women's game and the value Ireland see in his tactical eye and development work.

He will work under manager Carla Ward, a familiar figure from the touchlines of the Women's Super League. Ward’s Villa and Sorensen’s Everton went head to head domestically, and that prior rivalry now turns into an alliance with a World Cup place on the line.

Ireland open their play-off campaign against Kazakhstan in the first round, a tie that offers little margin for error. The staff changes are clear: this is a camp preparing to leave as little as possible to chance when October arrives.