Former Everton Women manager Brian Sørensen has been appointed as the new assistant coach for the Republic of Ireland women's national football team. The 46-year-old Danish coach joins head coach Carla Ward's technical staff ahead of crucial FIFA Women's World Cup qualification play-offs.

Sørensen replaces Gary Cronin, who stepped down from the position in August after six matches in the role. Sørensen currently serves as a technical advisor to Aston Villa Women and is set to balance those responsibilities with his international coaching position.

Prior to his tenure in the English Women's Super League with Everton from 2022 until early 2026, Sørensen managed several clubs in his native Denmark, including IK Skovbakken, Fortuna Hjørring, and FC Nordsjælland. In joining the Irish setup, he reunites with several former Everton players, including goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan and winger Heather Payne.

In a statement following the announcement, Sørensen expressed excitement about assisting Ireland in their pursuit of qualification for a second consecutive World Cup, citing the team's passion and ambition. Ward noted that Sørensen's extensive experience and familiarity with top-level coaching would be a strong asset during upcoming competitive fixtures.

Ireland are scheduled to face Kazakhstan in a two-legged play-off semi-final in October, with the home fixture set for SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh in Cork. Should Ireland progress, they will face either Belgium or Poland for a spot at the next Women's World Cup in Brazil.