Carla Ward Unveils First Republic of Ireland Women's Squad with Fresh Talent

Carla Ward, the newly appointed manager of the Republic of Ireland Women's National Team, has unveiled her first squad for the upcoming Nations League B double-header. The most notable inclusion is Melisa Filis, the Charlton Athletic midfielder, who has received her first call-up after obtaining international clearance from FIFA. Born in England but eligible through her Mayo-born mother, Filis is the only newcomer in Ward's squad.

Ward, who took over from Eileen Gleeson last month, faces the challenge of leading a team without several key players. Lily Agg, Jamie Finn, Jess Ziu, Louise Quinn, and Tara O'Hanlon are all unavailable due to various reasons, while Niamh Fahey, Diane Caldwell, and Julie-Ann Russell have retired from international football.

The 41-year-old former Aston Villa manager has signed a contract that extends through to the 2027 Women's World Cup. Her first game in charge will be a home match against Turkey on 21 February, followed by an away game against Slovenia four days later.

In addition to assembling her squad, Ward has also finalized her coaching team. Amber Whiteley joins as an assistant coach, complementing Alan Mahon and Emma Byrne.

Republic of Ireland Squad

• Goalkeepers: Courtney Brosnan (Everton), Sophie Whitehouse (Charlton Athletic), Grace Moloney (Unattached) Buiii8iiioi- Defenders: Heather Payne (Everton), Jessie Stapleton (Sunderland – on loan from West Ham United), Anna Patten (Aston Villa), Aoife Mannion (Manchester United), Caitlin Hayes (Brighton & Hove Albion), Megan Campbell (London City Lionesses), Katie McCabe (Arsenal)
• Midfielders: Denise O'Sullivan (North Carolina Courage), Megan Connolly (Lazio), Tyler Toland (Blackburn Rovers), Ruesha Littlejohn (Unattached), Marissa Sheva (Unattached), Melisa Filis (Charlton Athletic)
• Forwards: Leanne Kiernan (Liverpool), Kyra Carusa (San Diego Wave), Abbie Larkin (Crystal Palace), Amber Barrett (Standard Liege), Izzy Atkinson (Crystal Palace), Lucy Quinn (Birmingham City), Emily Murphy (Newcastle United)

Ward expressed her excitement about the upcoming campaign, stating, 'I'm delighted to bring this group of talented professionals and brilliant people together to work with our players for what will be an exciting Nations League campaign that then leads us into the qualifiers for the 2027 Women's World Cup.' She emphasized the importance of teamwork both on and off the pitch for success.