The Women's National Team travelled to Cyprus yesterday after a training session in Abbotstown with the new Head Coach before they face Czech Republic in the Cyprus Cup, with kick-off at 12.30pm (Irish time).
Bell has also revealed that Marie Hourihan from Manchester City has linked up with the squad for the tournament where he stands to claim her first cap since becoming eligible for the country.
Claire O'Riordan, striker for Wexford Youths, and Harriet Scott, defender from Reading, has also linked up with the squad and Bell admits he is looking forward to the challenge.
The WNT Head Coach said: "I'm really looking forward to it. It's been great to get onto the pitch with the group, starting on Sunday at Abbotstown and out here again today.
"I'm trying to get a few bits of information across to the group; it's going to be a tough game for us with only two small sessions of preparation.
"We had to move the squad around slightly. Julie Ann-Russell wasn't available so I've brought in Claire O'Riordan and Harriet Scott. Also, Marie Hourihan who is eligible to play for Ireland, she's a keeper from Manchester City.
"I'm looking forward to see how they settle in. We've got a few younger faces as well, the likes of Roma McLaughlin, Amanda McQuillan and Leanne Kiernan so we've got a good mix for the tournament."
Joining Bell on the trip is new goalkeeping coach Michael Kraft who formerly played in Germany and Turkey, and has also been part of the coaching staff at Eintracht Frankfurt and Werder Bremen.
The Women's National Team Head Coach was delighted that Kraft was available for the tournament and wants to see his side represent themselves well against the Czech Republic.
He added: "I've known Michael for 30 years, he has considerable experience having played at the highest level himself and it's great he could join us on the trip.
"I'm really pleased that he is here as he is really dedicated, a great guy and a great person, and I'm sure the goalkeepers will benefit from working with him.
"We've got to make sure we keep things tomorrow. Czech Republic have a settled squad who've been together a number of years now whilst we've got players coming in on different levels.
"Some have started the season, some haven't but I've seen a real character from the group since coming in and we've got to make sure that translates onto the pitch tomorrow."
via GET Sportonline
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