'It's pretty positive' - Méabh De Búrca on Carla Ward's appointment as Republic of Ireland's women's manager

Méabh De Búrca believes the Republic of Ireland have got one of the best coaches that was available in Carla Ward, with competitive action for the side resuming in the UEFA Women's Nations League in just over a month's time.

Former Aston Villa boss Ward left her role with the Women's Super League club at the end of last season and now replaces Eileen Gleeson, who was not offered a new deal after Ireland failed to qualify for Euro 2025.

Ward - who was part of the United States' coaching staff under Emma Hayes as they won gold at the 2024 Olympics in Paris - will take charge with immediate effect ahead of the 2025 Nations League campaign, which starts with a home game against Turkey at Tallaght Stadium on 21 February.

Ward will be supported by assistant coach Alan Mahon, a former Ireland men's international who also worked in the WSL at Manchester City, and goalkeeping coach Emma Byrne - former Ireland women's captain and record appearance holder.

Former Ireland international De Búrca is pleased that the FAI have now somebody in place in good time ahead of the Nations League, while overall hailing an appointment that will see Ward in charge until the end of the 2027 World Cup campaign.

Speaking on RTÉ Radio's Game On, she said: "I think it's pretty positive to be honest. I know there has been a lot of scrutiny on the FAI over their managerial appointments, but the timeline here is satisfactory, it's good to have her in place a month ahead of the next game against Turkey.

"Those games (in the Nations League) hopefully will provide her with an opportunity to hit the ground running. She's the best of what was available out there."

During her time as a club manager, Ward will be familiar with many of the Irish players and, according