Sorensen, who managed Everton before becoming a technical director at Aston Villa, will retain his position with the women's team at Aston Villa. He will link up with the Republic of Ireland during the international break, allowing him to balance his responsibilities with both clubs. The appointment of Sorensen comes as the Republic of Ireland prepare to face Kazakhstan in the first round of play-off qualifying, with the two-legged tie scheduled for 9 and 13 October. Carla Ward, the Republic of Ireland manager, has experience facing Sorensen's former team, having managed Aston Villa when they played Everton in the Women's Super League. The Republic of Ireland's Women's World Cup play-off qualifiers are a crucial step in their bid to qualify for the tournament.