Page 15 - Women's Soccer Scene Issue No.8 2022-23

Willie Kirk has taken charge of Leicester City after the departure of Lydia Bedford. The club
has issued the following statement:
Leicester City Football Club today announces a reorganisation of its Women’s First Team
operation, which includes the departure of Manager Lydia Bedford and Assistant
Manager Nicola Williams.
Lydia took charge of LCFC Women a year ago, successfully guiding the Foxes to
safety in our first season in the FA Women’s Super League. After joining the Club as a
highly regarded coach from the FA’s development pathway, Lydia contributed
significantly to the continued evolution of the LCFC Women setup, just two years on from
the team’s initial professionalisation.
However, an initial improvement in on-pitch results has proven unsustainable,
leading the Board to regrettably conclude that a change in direction is necessary. Lydia
departs with our sincere thanks for her contribution to the ongoing establishment of
LCFC Women and our very best wishes for the next steps in her career.
Following discussions with the Board relative to his existing role, Willie Kirk will
move from his position as Director of Football - Women and Girls, to take charge of the
Women’s First Team squad on a permanent basis. As First Team Manager, Willie will be
supported by First Team Coach Steve Kirby and Technical Coach Emile Heskey, and will
oversee training from Saturday.
Leicester City Chief Executive Susan Whelan said: “We’re extremely grateful to
Lydia for everything she has done during her time with Leicester City, guiding our
players through a difficult first season in the WSL. Her skill as a coach and dedication to
improving players were big factors in the retention of our WSL status and will continue
to serve her well in a successful career at the top of the women’s game.
“After a difficult start to the season, we now look to move forward with the team led
by Willie Kirk, whose experience and knowledge will be of great value for the challenges
ahead.”

Tel: (0117) 9694544 Julian Barker
E-Mail: news@womenssoccerscene.co.uk Will Cheshire
Website: Colin Poultney (CollargeImages.co.uk)
www.WomensSoccerScene.co.uk GrifftersWorld Photography
Twitter:
@wssmagnews Winners of the 2006
FA National Media Award
Editors:
Neil Brown Views expressed in articles in this magazine
Mark Brown are those of the subject and not necessarily
those of Women’s Soccer Scene and its staff.
Contributors:
James Prickett (www.jamesprickett.co.uk) Issue no. 847
Patrick Higgins
Front cover photo: Ruby Dykes slides in to win a tackle for Richmond Park against
Worthing FC Women’s Chloe Winchester (www.jamesprickett.co.uk).
news@womenssoccerscene.co.uk