Everton part ways with manager Sørensen | OneFootball

Everton Women have confirmed the departure of manager Brian Sørensen with immediate effect, with the club opting for a change of direction midway through the Women’s Super League season.

Sørensen leaves with Everton ninth in the table, four points clear of the relegation place, despite the club claiming their first home league win of the season just days ago.

Assistants Stephen Neligan and Ashley Tootle have also departed, while Under-18s coach Scott Phelan has been appointed interim head coach for the remainder of the campaign.

He will be assisted by Jennifer Foster and goalkeeping coach Ian McCaldon.

Everton chief executive Angus Kinnear acknowledged the importance of Sunday’s win but admitted the club felt a managerial change was required.

“Sunday’s first win of the season at Goodison Park was important, but it has become evident that a change of direction is necessary to ensure the progression on the pitch we are all striving for,” he said.

Everton came from behind to beat Aston Villa 2-1 at Goodison Park, with Martina Fernández scoring a late winner to secure a first league victory at their new permanent home.

This season has carried increased expectation following Everton’s takeover, greater investment and the move to Goodison Park as the women’s team’s long-term home.

However, the campaign has proved difficult. Everton lost six consecutive home league games to start the season and collected just 11 points from their opening 14 WSL fixtures, and won only three leaving the club hovering above the relegation zone despite notable wins over Liverpool and Chelsea.

Sørensen was appointed in 2022 and guided the club through a period of significant uncertainty off the pitch, often exceeding expectations despite limited resources and a lengthy injury list.

He signed a contract extension in April, but the club’s hierarchy have now decided a fresh approach is required as the season enters a decisive phase.

Phelan, a product of Everton’s Academy, captained the club’s Under-18s and represented England at Under-16, Under-17 and Under-18 level before moving into coaching.

He has spent more than a decade at Finch Farm, holding senior roles across the academy setup, including with the men’s Under-18s and Under-23s.

Phelan’s first match in interim charge comes this Sunday, when Everton travel to face London City Lionesses, as the club look to build momentum and secure their WSL status.

Everton say further updates on the club’s long-term plans will follow in due course.