Carla Ward Shuts Down Aston Villa Talk as Ireland Eye World Cup Play-off
Republic of Ireland manager Carla Ward says she is fully focused on World Cup qualifying amid links to Aston Villa, as her side prepare to face Kazakhstan without several key players.
Republic of Ireland manager Carla Ward has dismissed speculation linking her with a return to the Women's Super League, saying her only focus is guiding the national team to next summer's World Cup. Ward, who took charge in January 2025, has been mentioned in connection with the vacant managerial position at her former club Aston Villa, but she said nothing would distract her from the task at hand.
"Nothing is tempting when I'm in this job," Ward said. "I don't think anything can take my attention away from these next four games." She added that she came to the role with the specific aim of reaching a World Cup and would not entertain any other conversations while the qualifying campaign is ongoing.
Ireland's path begins with a play-off against Kazakhstan, starting away at the Astana Arena on Friday, 9 October, before the return leg in Cork four days later. Victory over the 98th-ranked side would set up a two-legged final against either Belgium or Poland for a place at the finals in Brazil. Ward described the four matches ahead as "four cup finals" and stressed the need for complete commitment.
The squad will be without several experienced players for the first leg. Captain Katie McCabe and Marissa Sheva are suspended, Denise O'Sullivan is unavailable, while Tara O'Hanlon and Saoirse Noonan are ruled out through injury. Crystal Palace midfielder Shanade Hopcroft has been called up for the first time. Ward said the absences create an opportunity for others to step forward, adding that McCabe will still lead the group off the pitch.
Ireland made history by qualifying for the 2023 World Cup, their first ever major tournament, but exited at the group stage after defeats to Australia and Canada and a draw with Nigeria. Ward said the team has made "tremendous strides" since then and believes reaching another World Cup would be the crowning achievement for a nation that has progressed significantly.
Supporters have reacted with a mix of relief and caution to Ward's commitment. Some fans welcomed her clear focus on the qualifying campaign, while others noted that the injury and suspension list makes the Kazakhstan tie far from straightforward, despite the opposition's lower ranking.
Image: Inpho / BBC Sport
