The Ireland women's national soccer team is facing a period of uncertainty after the sudden departure of their management team, including head coach Colin Bell and assistant coach Eileen Gleeson, just eight days after their Euro playoff defeat to Wales.
The team's star player, Katie McCabe, has spoken out about the need for the team to 'look forward' and focus on their upcoming Nations League campaign, which kicks off on Friday.
The FAI's decision to discard the management team has been met with surprise and disappointment from many in the soccer community, with some questioning the timing and reasoning behind the move.
However, the appointment of Carla Ward as the new manager has been seen as a positive step forward, with many praising her experience and credentials.
Ward, who has previously managed Birmingham City Women and Sheffield United Women, will be tasked with turning the team's fortunes around and leading them to success in the Nations League.
McCabe, who has been a key player for the team, has expressed her support for Ward and the new coaching staff, stating that the team needs to 'look forward' and focus on the challenges ahead.
The Nations League campaign will be a tough test for the team, with matches against top-quality opposition, but with Ward at the helm, there is a sense of optimism and hope that the team can achieve great things.
As the team prepares to take to the field on Friday, all eyes will be on Ward and her players to see how they will perform under new management.
One thing is certain, however: the Ireland women's national soccer team will be looking to put the disappointment of their Euro playoff defeat behind them and start a new chapter under Carla Ward's leadership.