Former Everton manager Brian Sorensen is set to join the Republic of Ireland squad for their Women’s World Cup play-off qualifiers this year.

Sorensen is expected to take up the role of assistant coach in their set-up, alongside Liverpool’s Amber Whiteley.

It is understood he will retain his position as technical director with Aston Villa women, but will link up with the Republic of Ireland during the international break.

He will work with manager Carla Ward, who faced Sorensen’s Everton in the Women’s Super League when she managed Villa.

The Republic of Ireland play Kazakhstan in the first round of play-off qualifying; the two-legged tie will take place on 9 and 13 October.