Everton Dismisses Head Coach Brian Sorensen Following Mixed Season

Brian Sorensen assumed the role of head coach at Everton in April 2022.

The club has decided to part ways with manager Brian Sorensen, mere days after achieving their inaugural home victory of the Women’s Super League season. Currently, Everton sits fourth from the bottom of the league standings under Sorensen’s management, which began in 2022.

“While Sunday’s win at Goodison Park was significant, it has become apparent that a change in direction is essential to facilitate the on-pitch progress we all seek,” stated Everton CEO Angus Kinnear.

In addition, coaches Stephen Neligan and Ashley Toole have also left the organization.

Scott Phelan, the Under-18s coach, aged 37, will now lead the women’s team for the remainder of the season. Women’s first-team coach Jennifer Foster will continue in her role, collaborating with Phelan, alongside goalkeeping coach Ian McCaldon.

Everton secured a 2-1 comeback victory against Aston Villa on Sunday, thanks to two pivotal goals from Martina Fernandez, including a dramatic winner in the 89th minute. This victory has allowed the team to extend their lead over the relegation-threatened Liverpool by four points.

The timing of this decision has surprised many, especially coming just hours after the transfer window closed, during which the club acquired Roma midfielder Zara Kramzar.

Sorensen had been involved in player recruitment, and many new signings over the past two windows aligned with his preferences. However, the sentiment that a shift in direction was necessary has been prevalent among the club for several months.

Fan frustration has grown due to inconsistent performances, with Sorensen appearing uncertain about his best starting eleven and frequently deploying players in unsuitable positions.

While his experimental approach had yielded positive results in the past, he deserves recognition for his management during the previous season when injuries left the squad depleted amidst the transition related to the Friedkin Group’s takeover.

Nevertheless, increased expectations surfaced this season following new investments and signings, raising hopes for a stronger challenge in the league. Unfortunately, the team has found itself embroiled in an avoidable relegation battle, prompting Everton’s recent decision to act swiftly, hoping to stabilize their position ahead of a summer rebuild.

Sorensen’s tenure at Everton has illustrated his coaching capabilities; however, his struggle to establish a consistent lineup has hindered his potential advancement.

Ben Haines, Ellen White, and Jen Beattie return for another season of the Women’s Football Weekly podcast, with new episodes available every Tuesday on BBC Sounds. Additionally, listeners can find interviews and extra content from the Women’s Super League and more on the Women’s Football Weekly feed.

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