Vera Pauw 'angry' at Diane Caldwell's comments and 'disappointed' with Eileen Gleeson

Vera Pauw has hit back at comments made by Diane Caldwell last September in which the Ireland defender claimed their success in reaching a first ever World Cup was achieved “in spite" of their manager.

The former Republic of Ireland Women’s National Team manager was relieved of her duties just three weeks after the Girls in Green’s first appearance at a major tournament ended at the group-stage.

The FAI listened to feedback from their players and decided against offering the Dutchwoman a new contract, instead opting to appoint Eileen Gleeson on an interim basis which has since been made permanent.

“From my position as a pretty experienced player, I don’t think it was up to the standard that’s expected at international level,” Caldwell said of Pauw’s coaching methods.

“The results and performances that we got were in spite of Vera being our coach. We approached her many times about professionalising many aspects but it was hard to get change.

“They (the FAI) have listened to the stakeholders in this team. These girls are good but we can actually be getting more out of them and performing at a higher level and achieving more success than what they have been.”

And speaking to the Second Captains’ Episode with Richie Sadlier, Pauw has responded to those sentiments made by the Ireland centurion.

“Where in men's football would a player be given be given the opportunity, who's only played so few minutes (for their club), to go to the World Cup and be apart of it?," began Pauw.

“In our conversations, all the other technical staff members wanted to put her on the table as a discussion point.

“I have said Diane Caldwell is NOT a discussion point. So I protected her and she does this to me. I was angry, I was destroyed, I was