McArdle is the new man in charge

108 days since the departure of former manager Tanya Oxtoby, the new manager of the NI Women's Senior team has been announced with Glaswegian Michael McArdle somewhat surprisingly being handed the role.

Michael's appontment appears to have been somewhat unexpected given that only hours previously it seemed that interim manager Kris Lindsay was still being linked to the position.

All that said few can doubt the experience that McArdle brings to the job with his CV showing more than 25 years of coaching experience, including 17 years working in the professional game in Scotland. Over that time he’s held a number of roles – from head coach and assistant coach to academy and programme leader – building up a wealth of experience across both the men’s and women’s game.

Across his career McArdle has been involved in around 200 senior matches in Scotland’s professional setup, and over the past three years he’s also gained international coaching experience. He’s known as a collaborative leader with a big focus on developing players and creating high-performance environments, particularly helping young talent make the step up to senior and international football.

McArdle, who officially starts on 1 April, says the opportunity immediately caught his attention. “History and ambition both attracted me to this role, alongside a strong alignment of values and the challenge ahead,” he explained. “The people I met throughout the recruitment process already reflected a real family feeling.” He added that it’s an honour for both him and his family to serve the Irish FA and the women’s and girls’ game in Northern Ireland.

Looking ahead, McArdle wants to help turn the squad’s potential into consistent performances on the international stage. “Supporters can expect a team that is disciplined, brave in possession and relentless without the ball,” he said. And he also had a message for the fans: “I know how important your support is to the success of the team. The players always give everything to make you proud, and I look forward to feeling that GAWA energy behind us as we continue our journey together.”

We wish Michael every success in his new role.

You view the Irish Football Associations first interview with Michael McArdle below