Northern Ireland manager quits to take job with WSL2 club: ‘It’s been an honour and a privilege’
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Tanya Oxtoby has stood down as Northern Ireland manager
Tanya Oxtoby has resigned as Northern Ireland manager after two and a half years at the helm.
The Australian has accepted a role as head coach of Women’s Super League 2 club Newcastle United.
After a drawn out process, Oxtoby replaced Kenny Shiels in August 2023. During her spell as boss she guided Northern Ireland to the Euro 2025 Qualifying Play-Offs losing to Norway and to the recent Nations League Promotion Play-Off, losing to Iceland over two legs.
Oxtoby said: “It’s been an honour and a privilege to lead Northern Ireland.
“We have seen a massive transition of young players coming through and a real high performing environment created which is a huge credit to players and staff alike who have been a pleasure to work with during my time in post.
Former Northern Ireland manager Tanya Oxtoby with her players
“I wish everyone the best going forward. To the fans, thank you for always supporting the journey. Northern Ireland, and the Green and White Army, will always have a special place in my heart.”
The new Newcastle boss added: “It is an exciting project and it’s my job to add to that, we are very ambitious, and it will be an amazing journey.
“My job is to come in and develop players and take us to the next level. I want to help everyone reach their potential and take them on a journey that will be really successful.
Tanya Oxtoby has stood down as Northern Ireland manager
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“The ambition that the club shows and my own ambition, they align and we are wanting to be successful and that’s the responsibility I carry.”
The Irish FA’s Director of Women’s Football Angela Platt commented: “From both a personal and professional perspective I have greatly valued working with Tanya.
“During her time in post we have made progress both on and off the pitch, particularly with her input into advancing our Together We Thrive women’s and girls’ strategy.
“She has contributed to the development of our programme at all levels and we wish her the very best for the next chapter of her journey.”
