Everton have confirmed the appointment of Scott Phelan as permanent head coach of Everton Women, following his interim tenure last season. Phelan, 38, took temporary charge in February after Brian Sorensen's departure and guided the Blues to an eighth-place finish in the Women's Super League.
Phelan's Journey at Everton
Phelan, a former Everton academy player of the year, has been with the club since the age of eight. He progressed through the academy, signed professional terms at 17, and was released at 19. After continuing to play until 24, he returned as a coach in the boys' academy, working his way up from under-10s to under-18s.
“I am unbelievably proud to be given this role,” Phelan said. “My time at Everton has spanned a long time and to have the opportunity to lead our Women's team as head coach is something I do not take for granted. I am excited and am looking forward to what's ahead.”
Extensive Search and Support Staff
The club stated that Phelan was chosen after an extensive search and review of other candidates. He will be supported by coach Phil Jevons. Everton technical director Nick Cox said: “Following a thorough and extensive process conducted since February, Scott proved the standout candidate. That was highlighted by the excellent job he did during his interim period, which included securing three straight WSL victories in his opening trio of matches, helping the team to climb the table, all while playing an exciting brand of football.”
Playing at Goodison Park
Everton Women will continue to play at Goodison Park this season. Phelan emphasised the privilege: “We are really fortunate to play at Goodison Park. Not every club within the WSL has the privilege of playing at a stadium like we do, not just in terms of size but actually the history and tradition that Goodison has. We want to make sure we continue to play with a style and a purpose that good Everton teams at Goodison Park have always brought.”
Aspirations for the Future
Phelan outlined his ambitions for the team: “We want to push forward and try to get back to the place where we believe Everton Football Club should be, and that's towards the top end of the table. Pushing closer to the top of the table might take a little bit of time, but they are certainly our aspirations. That is what we want this progress to be: aspirational for everybody, where we can push, where we can enjoy, and there's a feeling of growth.”
Cox added: “The club and our owners place great importance on our women's team and, with Scott as our permanent head coach, we are looking forward to making further progress in our second season at Goodison Park.”
