Niamh Fahey is vital to Ireland's present and future beyond the WWC

The FIFA Women's World Cup brings the greatest players from all over the globe together for a month-long event. Amongst the stars, Liverpool women's defensive rock Niamh Fahey will be present.

At 35 years old, her international career is looking to come to an end shortly. However, despite impending retirement, Fahey has provided a leaving gift for her nation Ireland by helping them to finally qualify for a World Cup tournament. 

Ireland's chances

Ireland isn't expected to make waves in the tournament, which is due to be held in Australia and New Zealand. For all intents and purposes, they simply don't have the firepower to go head-to-head with the top nations. In the Women's World Cup betting odds, for example, they are offered at 10/3 to advance from Group B, with reaching the knockout stage seen as a huge longshot. 

Understandably, it's tough to look past the likes of the dominant United States of America and England as the main prospects for the outright winner of the entire competition. For Ireland, it's simply an achievement just to have earned the right to participate in the tournament. 

Fahey's experience is vital to Ireland's present and future

Ireland's progression in recent years could set them up well for years to come. The likes of Fahey have been key leaders in an inexperienced squad. The crop of Ireland players that will navigate future tournaments will have had their development aided by the tutorship of Fahey. 

In this tournament, Fahey will help her teammates on the pitch, and the experience her teammates gain could be vital for the future when she is no longer part of the playing squad. 

Fahey has played many games in the English and French top flight, as well as over 100 international caps for her nation. Her experience in dealing with the highest-pressure games will be valuable insight that she can pass on to her compatriots.

It's well-known that Fahey is the standout leader in the Liverpool team, she wears the captain's armband for the WSL outfit. She has a strong history of improving the defensive structure of every team she is a part of.

Aside from her ability, her vocal leadership on the pitch is crucial. Her communication skills will help to guide her teammates through the most intense group stage fixtures this summer. Dealing with Sam Kerr and Australia especially will require a high level of concentration and consistent defensive structure. 

But overall, it's a tough ask for Ireland to progress from the group stages this year. The priority must be to continue the upward trajectory of the national team in the long term.

Playing alongside veterans such as Fahey at a World Cup is the greatest experience that the Irish squad can gain as they look towards becoming major tournament regulars in the future. The Liverpool defender will be a key part of a historic Irish team, and will also have an impact on the future generation of Ireland stars. 

Written by Alan Spencer