LAST UPDATE | 6 Oct 2023

THE FAI HAVE moved to clarify that Eileen Gleeson, who took over as interim coach following the departure of Vera Pauw from the Women’s National Team, will remain in charge for the remainder of the UEFA Nations League Group campaign.

A statement from the FAI noted, ‘Recruitment for a new Head Coach has reached a long list of candidates and this will move to a short list within the coming month.’

Gleeson took over after the high point of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, but with the squad dogged with divisions between players and management.

Since she took over, they have beaten Northern Ireland and Hungary, scoring seven goals and keeping two clean sheets.

The campaign will be finished in December, and Gleeson has indicated she is uninterested in takin it on herself.

Marc Canham, FAI Director of Football, commented, “We are very pleased with the calibre of candidate on our long list and with the ongoing process but we wanted to give stability to the team and Eileen for the upcoming games.

“Eileen has confirmed that she does not wish to be considered for the full-time role but is happy to continue in the interim role until a full-time Head Coach can be announced and she will resume her role as Head of Women and Girls’ Football.” 

Already, some have said they are interested, such as the former Nigeria coach Randy Waldrum. Others could come into the frame such as Tom Elmes, Matt Beard and Alan Mahon.