Soccer

Eileen Gleeson appointed Republic of Ireland boss on permanent basis

Republic of Ireland head coach Eileen Gleeson gestures on the touchline during the UEFA Women's Nations League Group B1 match at Windsor Park, Belfast. Picture date: Tuesday December 5, 2023. PA Photo. See PA story SOCCER N Ireland Women. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire. RESTRICTIONS: Use subject to FA restrictions. Editorial use only. Commercial use only with prior written consent of the FA. No editing except cropping. (Liam McBurney/Liam McBurney/PA Wire)
By PA Sport staff

Eileen Gleeson has been appointed as Republic of Ireland head coach on a permanent basis.

The Football Association of Ireland installed Gleeson, its head of women and girls’ football, as interim boss in Augus,t having not renewed Vera Pauw’s contract after the summer’s World Cup campaign in Australia and New Zealand.

The team have subsequently won six out of six Nations League matches, securing promotion to League A, and Gleeson will now lead the side as they look to qualify for Euro 2025.

Gleeson said in a statement from the FAI: “For me, there is nothing greater than being Irish.

“To have the opportunity to lead my country on the highest stage internationally and be entrusted with the responsibility of maximising the potential of this exciting team and future Ireland players is the proudest and most humbling moment of my life to date.

“Fresh from the experience of working with our fantastic players and staff during our recent Nations League campaign, and seeing all of our talented young players at underage level, there is huge potential for us to build on and to ensure consistent regular qualification for and progression in major tournaments. This is an extremely exciting time for Irish women’s football.”

The team made their first major tournament finals appearance at the World Cup, where they lost 1-0 to Australia and 2-1 to Canada before finishing with a 0-0 draw with Nigeria.