Tanya Oxtoby named Northern Ireland senior women’s team manager

The Irish Football Association has unveiled Tanya Oxtoby as the new manager for the Northern Ireland senior women’s team.

Oxtoby, originally hailing from Wickham in Western Australia, has put pen to paper on a four-year deal.

Recently holding the position of assistant coach at Chelsea Women, Oxtoby's credentials shine bright, boasting consecutive league and cup double victories.

She held the reins for Bristol City Women in the FA Women’s Super League and served as an assistant coach for both the English youth international teams and the Scottish senior women’s team in 2021.

On her appointment, an enthusiastic Oxtoby remarked, “I am delighted and honoured to join the Northern Ireland senior women's team. I’m really excited to be part of the next stage of international women’s football in this football-loving country.”

Having recently commentated on the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia, she is keen to dive into her new role, saying, “I will be giving everything to help develop the Northern Ireland team and ensure women’s and girls' football continues to grow and succeed on an international stage.”

Oxtoby’s impressive football journey commenced at Australian side Northern Redbacks in 2002.

She later transitioned to England, playing for Everton. Her coaching accolades include winning the FA Women’s Super League twice and clinching the Women’s FA Cup thrice.

Angela Platt, Irish FA’s Director of Women’s Football, praised Oxtoby's appointment, asserting she possesses the “knowledge, experience and pedigree” that made her the standout choice amongst a robust line-up of candidates.

“We are confident she can take our international programme to the next level,” Platt said.