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Eileen Gleeson: New Republic of Ireland head coach changed mind on job 'standing in the rain'

Eileen Gleeson (just visible on the right) says she changed her mind about taking the Republic of Ireland job in the torrential rain in AlbaniaGetty Images

Eileen Gleeson (just visible on the right) says she changed her mind about taking the Republic of Ireland job in the torrential rain in Albania

By Andy Gray
BBC Sport NI

When Eileen Gleeson was appointed Republic of Ireland manager on an interim basis following the departure of Vera Pauw, she was adamant she did not want the position on a full-time basis.

Yet, four months later, she has been unveiled as the new Irish head coach.

Despite calls that the Women's Nations League would be an audition, Gleeson was in denial about interest in the permanent post.

Her firm stance softened as the campaign progressed, and despite a perfect record with six wins from six, her appointment still came as a bit of a surprise - as obvious as it seemed given the team's progress on her watch.

As for when she changed her mind, standing in a downpour in Albania may not be the most obvious answer. Yet, for Gleeson, it was after that rain-hit October night, when the game was delayed by an hour, when she decided to enter the race.

"If you're asking for a critical, specific time where I changed my mind, it was standing in the rain in Albania," she said.

"I mean, who wouldn't want to be there">