Shelley Kerr has resigned as manager of Scotland’s National Women Team after failing to qualify for UEFA Women’s Euro 2022.
Having reached the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup for the first time under Kerr only to exit in the Group Stage in dramatic scenes, Scotland unexpectedly failed to qualify for UEFA Women’s Euro 22 after missing out to Finland and Portugal in Qualifying Group E earlier this month.
Discussions have since took place between Kerr and the Scottish FA with both parties agreeing ‘that the timing was right’ to appoint a new Head Coach to oversee their final two Qualifying matches in February and prepare for 2023 FIFA World Cup Qualifying, with the Finals to be held in Australia and New Zealand.
Speaking on her disappointment at failing to qualify for the Women’s Euros, Kerr said; “There were huge expectations surrounding the whole team, based on our recent successes but I couldn’t be prouder than to have led the team – as well as the team behind the team – to the Women’s World Cup.”
Kerr placed on record her thanks to the Scottish FA, players and support staff for their efforts and stated her beliefs that “… they will continue to inspire the next generation.”
The 51 year-old above all on guiding the Tartan Army to a first Women’s World Cup feels “privileged to have played a part in such an historical moment in Scottish Football.”
Kerr ultimately though admitted that she knows “in my heart that the time is right for a new head coach to take the forward to the next campaign.”
On future plans, Kerr is ready to “look ahead to the next chapter, to face new challenges and to create and enjoy more amazing experiences on my journey.”
Scottish FA Chief Executive, Ian Maxwell paid tribute to Kerr’s impact that “cannot be underestimated and contribution, saying; “We are thankful for her contribution in leading the team to historic success in qualifying for the Women’s World Cup,”
Maxwell also praised Kerr for her “… dedication and commitment to advancing the women’s game at all levels.”
On the disappointment of failing to qualify for Women’s Euro 2022, Maxwell said; “This UEFA Euro qualifying campaign ended sooner than we anticipated and we both felt it was the right time for the national team to regroup in time for the World Cup qualifiers,”
Maxwell also iterated his view that this decision will enable Kerr “… to fulfil her career ambitions with a fresh challenge.”
Kerr’s legacy however will remain with Maxwell describing the ex Arsenal Women’s Manager as “… an advocate for the women’s game in Scotland and we wish her the best for the future.”
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