OXFORD United have not been offered a place in the restructured Women’s Super League.

The club, who applied to the Football Association to continue at the level, which has been turned into an 11-team full-time division, are now looking to explore other options.

It is reported the U’s will be offered a place in the third tier – the new Women’s National League.

Oxford finished eighth in this season’s Women’s Super League 2, while manager Andy Cook has left the club.

The U’s were informed by the FA last night their application to remain at the level had been unsuccessful and they would be offered a place in a different league.

Despite the setback, United are determined to maintain a women’s team.

Managing director Niall McWilliams said: “It is a major commitment to run a competitive team in the WSL, but both Tiger (owner, Sumrith Thanakarnjanasuth) and Darryl Eales have been brilliantly supportive and continue to support a women’s side at the club.

“It is disappointing not to be in the WSL, but at the same time it gives us a great opportunity to take stock, find our place at a level where we can truly compete, and work hard to build a successful women’s team.

“The model we believe works best is a team that allows the best women players in the county to play at the highest level and work with the best coaches to develop their game.

“That then helps to continue the development of the women’s game all across Oxfordshire."

Manchester United have been handed a place in the Women’s Championship, the level below the Super League.