Tanya Oxtoby has stepped down as manager of the Northern Ireland senior women’s team to take up the women’s first team manager post with WSL 2 side Newcastle United.
Oxtoby, who took charge in August 2023, guided Northern Ireland to the UEFA Women’s European Championship Qualifying Play-Offs in 2024 – including a semi-final win over Croatia – and took the team to a UEFA Women’s Nations League Promotion Play-Off against Iceland this year.
And Northern Ireland’s FIFA world ranking has also improved during her tenure, up from 47th to 44th.
On departing, Oxtoby said: “It’s been an honour and a privilege to lead Northern Ireland.
“We have seen a massive transition of young players coming through and a real high performing environment created which is a huge credit to players and staff alike who have been a pleasure to work with during my time in post.
"I wish everyone the best going forward. To the fans, thank you for always supporting the journey. Northern Ireland, and the Green and White Army, will always have a special place in my heart."
Irish FA President Conrad Kirkwood said: “Tanya took over the team at a time when it needed to transition from older players into a new generation.
"She has not only introduced those new players but she has also improved our world ranking in the process. I have worked closely with her and have enjoyed her professional approach. She will be a huge asset in her new role and I wish her every success.”
In line with Oxtoby’s remit of evolving the team and introducing fresh new talent into the squad, nine players made their debuts under her, with the average age of the squad dropping from 27 to 23.
The Irish FA’s Chief Executive Officer, Patrick Nelson, said: “Tanya has played an important role in further professionalising our senior women’s programme. Her knowledge, experience and leadership have had a significant impact on both players and staff.
"We thank her for her contribution and wish her every success for the future.”
Director of Women’s Football Angela Platt added: “From both a personal and professional perspective I have greatly valued working with Tanya.
"During her time in post we have made progress both on and off the pitch, particularly with her input into advancing our Together We Thrive women’s and girls’ strategy.
“She has contributed to the development of our programme at all levels and we wish her the very best for the next chapter of her journey.”
