Northern Ireland has added another coach to their staff with a UEFA Women’s Nations League play-off game coming up.
Tanya Oxtoby has been manager of Northern Ireland since 2023.
After two years in her role, Oxtoby has decided to add a new coach to her staff ahead of October’s international break.
Our Women’s Nations League promotion play-off opponent is locked in 🔒 We’ll face Iceland in October 🙌🏻 #GAWA #UWNL pic.twitter.com/ySQnNWRxIe
— Northern Ireland (@NorthernIreland) June 6, 2025
Northern Ireland announced the arrival of Laura Heffernan this week. The vastly experienced coach sure to bring plenty of new ideas to the international team.
“It is a privilege to be joining the Northern Ireland senior women’s team set-up.” Heffernan said. “The opportunity to work with Tanya, the staff and such a talented group of players was one I was delighted to accept.”
“I can already see the brilliant work being done by everyone involved to develop and grow the game and I am looking forward to contributing in any way I can.”
Heffernan’s new role will be completed alongside her domestic duties for Irish club, Dun Laoghaire–Rathdown.
Tanya Oxtoby welcomes new coach
Northern Ireland boss Oxtoby said: “We are really excited to have Laura join our technical team for this upcoming window.
“She has a wealth of experience across the women’s game, and she will add a lot of value to our staff team moving forward.”
What next for Northern Ireland?
The arrival of Heffernan comes at a crucial time for Northern Ireland.
After finishing second in their Nations League group, Oxtoby’s team will compete in an all-important playoff game next month.
Should Northern Ireland win against Iceland, they would be promoted to League A in the competition.
Iceland will travel to Ballymena Showgrounds on October 24th. The second leg takes place just four days later at Laugardalsvöllur in Iceland.
