Eileen Gleeson: 'Playing at the top level will benefit Denise and Ireland'

Denise O’Sullivan joining Manchester United would, in some ways, benefit Ireland in the eyes of Eileen Gleeson.

United, who recently lifted the FA Cup at Wembley, are planning to break the grip three-in-row champions Chelsea have taken of the WSL and see the Corkwoman as a key component.

O’Sullivan has been in America since 2016, joining North Carolina Courage a year later, for whom she’s captain but the looming expiration of her contract in November has raised speculation about her future.

The midfielder turned 30 in February and has spoken previously about moving closer to home.

In a year that Ireland is attempting to qualify for their first Euros, probably through the playoffs from October and November, her Ireland boss can foresee some benefit accruing from having one of her maestros within nearer proximity.

“There will be rumours all over the place,” said Gleeson ahead, while naming the centurion on her squad for the double-header of Euro qualifiers against Sweden, at Lansdowne Road on Friday week and Stockholm’s Friends Arena four days later.

“Denise plays for one of the top leagues in the world and that is brilliant for us. Would it be better if she was across the water, maybe in some ways.

“Ultimately, it is up to Denise where she goes. I guess if Denise is making any decisions, she will factor everything in.

"For us, it is more about the level that she is playing at. She’s at a top club, top level and is producing top performances.” 

O’Sullivan will report into camp over the weekend carrying an injury, one Gleeson feels won’t affect her participation. Ireland are seeking their first goals and points of the 2025 campaign following losses to France (0-1) and England (0-2) in April’s opening series.

“When