Scott Phelan sets tone for Everton after Sørensen departs

Everton Women have entered a pivotal phase of their 2025 Barclays Women’s Super League campaign following the departure of head coach Brian Sørensen, with Scott Phelan stepping in as interim manager.  

The change comes despite a morale-boosting 2-1 victory over Aston Villa at Goodison Park-Everton’s first home win of the WSL season-with the Toffees currently sitting ninth in the table on 11 points. Phelan addressed the media ahead of Sunday’s away fixture against London City Lionesses at Hayes Lane.

Early Impressions and Player Response

Phelan confirmed that his first full day in charge on communication and resetting expectations.

He explained that he met the squad early in the morning, describing the past 24 hours as emotional for everyone involved. Establishing clarity around standards and expectations was the priority, and he was encouraged by what followed.

On the training pitch, Phelan praised the players’ attitude, energy, and professionalism, noting that the positivity was evident “from the first ball”. With just one meeting and one session completed, he described the opening day as a positive step forward.

Short-Term Ambition: Winning Mentality Over League Targets

Asked about objectives for the remainder of the season, Phelan was clear the results-rather than league position-are the focus.

There is no fixed target in terms of where Everton should finish. Instead, the ambition is to win more matches, rebuild confidence, and establish a consistent winning mentality. Alongside results, Phelan spoke of gradually implementing a clear style of play that blends performance with effectiveness:

“We just want to win games of football and become a winning team again.” 

Why Scott Phelan?

Phelan’s appointment was described as a natural progression rather than a rushed decision. Having already been within the club, his long-standing connection to Everton-as a youth player, professional, and academy coach, played a significant role.

He highlighted the importance of the women’s team within Everton Football Club’s identity, emphasising that this commitment predates the recent growth of the women’s game. From early matches at Marine to the present day, Phelan spoke of a deep-rooted respect for the women’s side that he has felt throughout his career at the club.

Coaching Staff and the Role of Jennifer Foster

A key figure in the transition is Jennifer Foster, who took charge from the dugout during the Aston Villa win while Sørensen watched from the stands.

Phelan was effusive in his praise, describing Foster as invaluable, open, and hugely knowledgeable. He highlighted her impact on the training ground and underlined that she will play a major role in shaping Everton’s performances and standards for the remainder of the season.

Has the Aston Villa Win Changed the Mood?

While acknowledging the symbolic importance of winning at Goodison Park, Phelan was careful not to draw conclusions about the squad’s mood before his arrival.

What he could speak confidently about was the professionalism shown on his first day in charge. He described it as a privilege to coach the players and admitted the session had increased his excitement ahead of the final nine matches of the season.

Preparing for London City Lionesses

Turning attention to Sunday’s opponents, Phelan described London City Lionesses as a strong and respected side, regardless of league position or prior results.

Everton will prepare for the “best version” of their opponents, but Phelan also emphasised the importance of focusing on Everton’s own strengths. He outlined a desire for the team to impose themselves away from home and adopt a proactive approach — something he hopes to see quickly.

Addressing Everton’s Core Issue

When asked what must change to avoid a relegation battle, Phelan’s answer was direct: Everton must win more football matches.

He acknowledged that the squad’s talent suggests they should be performing better than they have this season. Based on the quality and intensity shown in training, Phelan expressed optimism that improved results are achievable before May.

Style of Play and Identity

While tactical detail will follow in due course, Phelan outlined some early principles he wants the team to embrace.

Everton are expected to be more purposeful both in and out of possession, spend more time higher up the pitch, and play with confidence and bravery. Above all, Phelan stressed enjoyment — reminding players that representing Everton is a privilege and that performances should reflect that freedom.

Atmosphere During a Turbulent Transition

Olivia Rafferty asked Phelan about the atmosphere within the club, following a turbulent period in transition.

Phelan explained that his priority was supporting existing staff from the previous regime. He praised their professionalism, openness, and willingness to help him settle into the role quickly.

Regarding the players, he described a positive atmosphere both on and off the pitch. Enthusiasm in training, coupled with relaxed and happy interactions around the training ground, gave him confidence that the group responded well to the first session under his guidance.

Decision-Making as an Interim Manager

Rafferty also asked how Phelan’s interim status might affect decisions around selection and tactics.

Phelan stressed that collaboration will be central to his approach. While he may ultimately deliver team decisions to the players, those choices will be shaped through discussion with experienced coaching staff. He acknowledged that attempting to manage alone would be unrealistic and reiterated his belief in collective expertise to find the right balance and deliver results.