Improving Aspirations of NI Players Under Oxtoby – Platt
Northern Ireland’s women’s football team has seen significant improvements in player aspirations under the leadership of manager Tanya Oxtoby, according to Angela Platt, director of women’s football at the Irish FA. Oxtoby, a former assistant manager at Chelsea, took on the role in August and has already made a positive impact on the team. Despite a third-place finish in their Nations League group and a frustrating 0-0 draw in their opening Euro 2025 qualifier against Malta, the team has shown progress both on and off the field.
The professionalism and high standards that Oxtoby has brought to the table have inspired the players to strive for improvement every day, said Platt. The team’s performance in the inaugural Nations League campaign under Oxtoby had its ups and downs, ultimately finishing third in League B3. However, they managed to secure their place in League B for Euro 2025 qualifying with a 3-1 aggregate play-off win over Montenegro.
While there have been some initial challenges, including Oxtoby falling ill and being unable to attend the team’s second Euro qualifier in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Platt remains pleased with the progress made. She praised the work that Oxtoby and her staff team have put in, highlighting the positive changes in the team’s style and environment behind the scenes. The players have responded well to these changes, creating a positive atmosphere and fostering a strong sense of ambition and optimism within the team.
In Oxtoby’s absence, coach Stuart McLaren will take charge of the team alongside IFA girls’ elite youth academy manager Danielle McDowell Tuffey and goalkeeping coach Roy Carroll. Despite the challenges faced, including the recent virus outbreak within the Northern Ireland camp, Platt emphasized that the team remains determined to qualify for major tournaments. There is a clear focus on continuous development and improvement, with plans and processes in place to ensure consistency regardless of who is leading the team.
Platt reassured that Oxtoby will be in communication with her coaching team throughout the match if she is feeling well enough. While Oxtoby is devastated not to be present in person, the lines of communication will remain open to allow her to provide guidance and support when possible. The team’s ambition and determination, combined with Oxtoby’s principles and focus on development, are key factors driving their progress.
The Northern Ireland women’s football team is on a journey of growth and improvement, with a clear vision for success. Despite the initial setbacks, the team remains focused on their goals and is determined to achieve them. With Oxtoby at the helm, the players are inspired to be better, both on and off the pitch, creating a positive and ambitious environment for success.