Tensions led to Gary Cronin's Ireland WNT stint being short-lived

Carla Ward is now seeking a third assistant in the space of 10 months, potentially four games away from reaching next year’s World Cup in Brazil.

GONE: Ireland assistant coach Gary Cronin in conversation with head coach Carla Ward during a Republic of Ireland training camp at Fota Island Resort in Cork. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Gary Cronin’s departure as Ireland women’s team assistant manager was long in the offing following a short but rocky spell.

His exit, confirmed by the FAI on Sunday morning, comes just six months and six matches into his tenure and two months out from the World Cup qualification playoffs.

Cronin was a surprise appointment by manager Carla Ward in January, as his managerial CV didn’t include previous experience with female teams.

He succeeded former Manchester City coach Alan Mahon who himself abruptly resigned just a year into Ward’s reign.

She is now seeking a third assistant in the space of 10 months, potentially four games away from reaching next year’s World Cup in Brazil.

Ward had explained how the former Bray Wanderers and Longford Town manager was the standout candidate from 200 applicants but regardless the appointment will always be associated with John Martin.

Cronin became the first senior international managerial appointment since Martin was installed as the FAI’s director of football and the pair have a close relationship since their days as teammates at Longford Town.

The 47-year-old joined as a full-time employee and was utilised by Martin in other areas such as an interviewer for the LOI academy jobs, created with the financial assistance of the Government.

It’s understood some senior Ireland players didn’t take favourably to the newcomer’s coaching methods and it became apparent during recent camps that he was being marginalised.

“Look, Gary’s a really nice guy and I think it takes time when you go from (men’s to women’s game),” was an interesting comment delivered by Ward, just days before Ireland’s most recent home game, the late win over Netherlands at Páirc Uí Chaoimh in June.

“Men’s football and women’s football are very different. So, if you’re surrounded by 20 guys or 20 females, we’re a different breed, I don’t mind saying that. Naturally, it takes its time but Gary’s a top man.” 

Cronin will still be involved in the game, according to his parting words: "As I move on to new opportunities, I’d like to wish Ireland the very best of luck in the upcoming playoffs – hopefully they can go on to clinch qualification to another World Cup.”