Carla Ward has announced her Republic of Ireland coaching team ahead of her first match in charge in the UEFA Nations League campaign.
Having missed out on qualification for a first ever European Championships after a play-off defeat to Wales, the FAI decided not to renew Eileen Gleeson’s contract as head coach.
Ward was appointed in January, having formerly been in charge of Aston Villa’s women and she begins her term in charge when Turkey visit Tallaght Stadium on Friday week, February 21 in League B of the Nations League.
Former Republic of Ireland netminder and record cap holder Emma Byrne will be at Ward’s disposal as a goalkeeping coach, with Ivi Casagrande in as high performance coach having spent the 2023 World Cup as part of the Brazil set-up.
Amber Whiteley appears a coup as assistant coach, currently operating in the same role as assistant coach of Liverpool Women’s Team in the English Women’s Super League.
And there is further Super League experience in the shape of former Tranmere and Burnley midfielder Alan Mahon, himself twice capped for the Republic of Ireland in a duo of friendly matches.
Mahon has 10 years experience coaching with Manchester City’s women, and he will operate under the title of assistant head coach.