Brian Sorensen is stepping back onto the international stage, this time in green.
The former Everton manager is set to join the Republic of Ireland women’s set-up as assistant coach for their Women’s World Cup play-off qualifiers later this year, adding significant top-flight experience to a backroom team gearing up for a high‑stakes autumn.
Sorensen will work alongside Liverpool coach Amber Whiteley in the assistant role, forming a new-look support staff around manager Carla Ward. Ward knows Sorensen’s work at close quarters; their sides met in the Women’s Super League when she was in charge of Aston Villa and he was guiding Everton, trading ideas and game plans from opposing dugouts. Now they join forces with a World Cup place on the line.
Crucially, Sorensen is not leaving his current club post. He is expected to remain as technical director with Aston Villa Women, linking up with the Republic of Ireland squad during international breaks. It’s a dual responsibility that underlines his stock in the women’s game and Ireland’s determination to squeeze every ounce of expertise into this campaign.
High Stakes Against Kazakhstan
The assignment is clear and unforgiving. The Republic of Ireland face Kazakhstan in the first round of play-off qualifying, a two-legged tie that will go a long way to defining their year.
The dates are set: 9 and 13 October.
By then, Sorensen will be embedded in the camp, working alongside Ward and Whiteley to fine-tune a side that knows there is no margin for error. Two games, one opponent, and the promise of a World Cup on the horizon. For Ireland, and for Sorensen, October will not be a gentle introduction. It will be a test of nerve, detail and ambition.
