By Azuka, Betandsured
LIVERPOOL, June 24 Everton have appointed Scott Phelan as permanent head coach of the club’s women’s team following an interim spell that impressed both players and hierarchy, with the 38 year old tasked with leading the side towards the upper reaches of the Women’s Super League.
Phelan took temporary charge in February after Brian Sorensen’s departure and guided the Blues to a strong second half of the season, finishing eighth in the table. The club said he was chosen after an extensive search and review of other candidates, with Phil Jevons continuing in his role as coach.
The appointment represents a full circle moment for Phelan, who joined Everton at the age of eight, progressed through the academy, signed professional terms at 17 and returned as a coach after his playing career ended. He has worked across age groups from Under 10 to Under 18 before stepping into the women’s role.
“I am unbelievably proud to be given this role,” Phelan said. “My time at Everton has spanned a long time and to have the opportunity to lead our Women’s team as head coach is something I do not take for granted. I am excited and am looking forward to what’s ahead.
“Now, I have got this opportunity to work with our Women’s team and it’s an amazing opportunity. We want to push forward and trying to get back to the place where we believe Everton Football Club should be, and that’s towards the top end of the table.”
Everton’s women’s side will once again play at Goodison Park this season, a factor Phelan views as a significant advantage. “We are really fortunate to play at Goodison Park. Not every club within the WSL has the privilege of playing at a stadium like we do, not just in terms of size but actually the history and tradition that Goodison has.
“We want to make sure we continue to play with a style and a purpose that good Everton teams at Goodison Park have always brought. Everton teams play with purpose, energy and enthusiasm in a way the fans can relate to. Pushing closer to the top of the table might take a little bit of time, but they are certainly our aspirations.”
Technical director Nick Cox said Phelan had emerged as the standout candidate from a thorough process. “That was highlighted by the excellent job he did during his interim period, which included securing three straight WSL victories in his opening trio of matches, helping the team to climb the table, all while playing an exciting brand of football that players, staff and fans got behind.
“The club and our owners place great importance on our women’s team and, with Scott as our permanent head coach, we are looking forward to making further progress in our second season at Goodison Park.”
