Carla Ward appointed Republic of Ireland women's head coach

Carla Ward has been appointed Republic of Ireland women's head coach, the FAI has confirmed.

The former Sheffield United, Birmingham City and Aston Villa manager succeeds Eileen Gleeson and will take on the role with immediate effect on a deal that will run through the campaign for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.

"I'm hugely excited to get going with the Ireland women’s national team. This is an unbelievable opportunity, not just with the national team but in helping to add to the fantastic work being done to develop women and girls’ football," said the 41-year-old, whose playing career saw her represent the likes of Leeds and Sheffield United, before switching to coaching in 2017.

"Over the next two and a half years, as we build towards the World Cup, we can make a real difference and I’m looking forward to getting started."

Ward stepped down as manager of Aston Villa after a three-year spell last summer and was part of former Chelsea manager Emma Hayes' United States coaching staff as they won the gold medal at the 2024 Olympic Games.

FAI chief football officer Marc Canham said the association were delighted to secure a manager of Ward's pedigree.

"To be able to secure such a top quality coach is a statement of where our ambition for our women's national team where can go," he said.

"We are delighted to secure someone who brings the passion, commitment and skillset that we set out to find in the recruitment process. Carla’s experience as a coach, aligned with her ability to bring the best out in those around her, marked her out as our number one candidate and we are confident that she will be a brilliant appointment.

"This is an important time for the development of women and girls’ football in Ireland, so having Carla play a