England the dream draw for Ireland coach Ward

Ward was appointed in January on a contract tied to Ireland’s involvement in the World Cup qualification series.

Republic of Ireland head coach Carla Ward and Abbie Larkin of Republic of Ireland celebrate. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

England is the dream draw for Ireland in next year’s Women’s World Cup draw, according to Carla Ward.

Another meeting with the Auld Enemy like the last Euro campaign is possible in Tuesday’s draw after Ireland edged Belgium 5-4 on aggregate in the shootout to be among the top-16 nations for the draw.