Northern Ireland skipper says squad stand by manager Shiels

Northern Ireland captain Marissa Callaghan says manager Kenny Shiels has her backing following his controversial comments on Tuesday.

Shiels apologised for a statement where he said "women are more emotional than men" following the country's 5-0 defeat by England

"Collectively we stand by our manager," said Callaghan.

The midfielder added her manager's words came in the context of a meeting between Shiels and the squad which found that conceding goals in quick succession was happening.

"We feel his interview was in relation to a meeting we had as a team where we analysed that we concede goals in quick succession, and emotions was one of the many things we discussed," added Callaghan.

"Since Kenny took over our national team three years ago, I have always complimented him publicly on how he can get the best out of his players individually and collectively. He is a man of integrity who cares for us like we are family."

After his side's loss to England, Shiels said: "Girls and women are more emotional than men. So they take a goal going in not very well."

His remarks drew widespread criticism, including from former England players Siobhan Chamberlain and Ian Wright.

On Wednesday, the 65-year-old apologised for causing offence and said he was "an advocate for the women's game and passionate about developing opportunities for women and girls to flourish".

Callaghan continued: "Kenny has transformed the game here in Northern Ireland because he understands how to get the best out of his players.

"We have qualified for a major tournament because he transformed our mindset. We look forward to the next few months as we continue to prepare for the Euros this summer."

Shiels' words followed his side's loss to England in front of a crowd of 15,348 - a record for a women's football match in Northern Ireland. Callaghan said selling out Windsor Park was a "pivotal moment" for the game here.

"We as players and staff will continue as a team to help grow the game and inspire the next generation of young players and fans," she said.

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• northern ireland
• Women's Football
• kenny shiels
• marissa callaghan