Everton Women manager reacts to FA decision to end WSL season

Willie Kirk is planning for next season at Everton after the current Women's Super League campaign was ended immediately this week

Everton Women manager reacts to FA decision to end WSL season

Everton Women manager Willie Kirk believes the right decision was made to end the Women's Super League season earlier this week.

Everton were seventh in the table when the Football Association confirmed the campaign would be ended immediately with promotion and relegation issues still to be decided.

Kirk, who was assistant manager at Manchester United Women before being appointed in 2018, has inspired an upturn in fortunes for the Blues while making several high-profile signings including Izzy Christiansen and Hayley Raso.

He also masterminded the 1-0 victory over local rivals Liverpool Women at Anfield in November.

“My initial reaction was that it [ending the season] is the right decision,” Kirk told evertonfc.com.

“All 12 clubs have been fairly consistent with that over the past couple of weeks.

“It’s disappointing we’ve not been able to finish the season, but we’re comfortable with the decision.

“The players have been very committed to their programmes.

“It was tough for them, because they were having to keep up with their fitness but not having the motivation of training alongside their teammates.

“And we’ve never had a fixed date to return. I think there was a sense of relief that people now know where they stand.

“As far as I’m concerned, the players can now enjoy this time to rest and not feel guilty about that. They need that because, while we have not had football in a couple of months, they have been non-stop with their training.”

Kirk revealed he has now set his sights on the new campaign before the arrival of a key signing - his first child.

“I’ve got another couple of weeks’ worth of work to do in terms of reviewing the season and planning for next season,” he said.

“Then it’s gearing up for the arrival of baby number one.

“My girlfriend is due mid-to-end of July. We’ve most things in place, we think, although I don’t think you can ever be fully prepared! It’s very exciting.”