Everton
Everton Women have appointed Scott Phelan as their interim head coach following the unexpected departure of Brian Sorensen. Phelan, who has been a part of the Everton setup for years, is set to lead the team with a focus on attacking football. The 19-year-old midfielder Harrison Armstrong, a product of Everton’s academy, recently spoke about Phelan’s influence on his development, highlighting the coach’s dedication and creativity-driven approach.
Harrison Armstrong said: “He’d always want you to be very involved in the sessions and show your creativity. I thought I’d seen enough of him, but then he moved up to the 18s!”
Phelan, who has been with the Everton academy since 2012, stepped into the role after Sorensen’s dismissal, which occurred shortly after the transfer window closed. His extensive history with the club made him a fitting choice for the position.
Scott Phelan said: “My affiliation with the club goes back a long time. I was known in the building and the club thought I would be an appropriate appointment. What the years in the club have told me is how important the Women’s team are in this club.”
In his first press conference, Phelan expressed his desire to see Everton Women play with more confidence and freedom, aiming to transform them into a more attacking side.
Phelan said: “Spending a lot of time in higher areas of the pitch is something I want to achieve. We want the team to be confident and play with freedom and bravery. They need to enjoy it – it is a privilege to be at this club, as a player or a member of staff. We want to play at Goodison Park and away grounds with a style.”
Everton Women, currently ninth in the Women’s Super League, are preparing to face the sixth-placed London City Lionesses. Their recent victory against Aston Villa, secured by two goals from Martina Fernandez, marked a positive start under Phelan’s leadership. Despite this win, Sorensen’s tenure ended due to a lack of consistent results, with only three league victories this season.
Phelan’s new coaching team includes Jennifer Foster and goalkeeping coach Ian McCaldon. Foster’s expertise in the women’s game has been recognized as invaluable to the team’s future success.
Phelan said: “Jen has been amazing. She is so humble and knowledgeable about the women’s game. She is invaluable and an outstanding coach. She is somebody that will be really valuable and is a massive part of what we are going to do.”
The team held their first training session under the new coaching staff on Thursday, which Phelan described as encouraging.
Phelan said: “What I’ve seen in training today has encouraged me to suggest there are plenty of promising moments that could arrive between now and the end of the season. Today was a real privilege to be around the players and train them. They have been so professional in the last 24 hours.”
In addition, Honoka Hayashi has extended her contract with Everton Women until June 2027, with an option for an additional year, signaling a commitment to stability and growth within the squad.
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