LIAM Gilbert has agreed a new deal to remain in charge of Oxford United Women.
Gilbert, who celebrated five years with the club this summer, almost led the side to the league crown last season.
United headed into the final day of the Southern Premier Division campaign top of the table and knowing a win would’ve secured them the title, however they were beaten 1-0 at Ipswich Town.
READ ALSO: Oxford United Women goal machine to leave the club
Key players from last season’s promotion challenge, including goalkeeper Rose Kite, skipper Riva Casley, midfielder Naomi Cole and striker Carly Johns, have all announced they will be leaving the club.
It means Gilbert committing to the U’s is all the more important as they seek to push on from the success of last season.
He told the United club website: “So many people have worked so hard to get the women’s team into a really strong position.
“When I arrived five years ago, we didn’t have any players registered, we had just been relegated and it was a case of starting with a blank canvas.
“That turned out to be a good thing though because between us we built sensibly, we have been able to get the infrastructure right and we have amazing people on the staff and in our squad.
“We have this outstanding home record, then you look at the way that women’s football is growing, the way our development side is going, our work with so many young footballers who see Oxford United as role models, and to be offered the chance to be part of that for the future is an honour.
“I’m delighted to be given the opportunity and now the hard work starts again.
“We have training this week, we have a new season to look forward to and our job is simple – keep progressing, keep growing, and see how far we can go.”
“He’s got an opportunity here if he comes back and gets fit, and performs to a high level, and then we’ll sit down and have a discussion with him.”
— Oxford Mail OUFC (@OxfordMailOUFC) July 10, 2023
Liam Manning discusses the situation with midfielder Alex Gorrin #oufc https://t.co/3zxbKb8cbH pic.twitter.com/aDiaCCYXt4
The U’s have also confirmed a series of staff changes behind the scenes.
George Anthony will step up into the role of assistant coach alongside Cheryl Williams, having previously been development squad manager.
Meanwhile, Kath Faulkner is to become women’s head of analysis.
James Headland remains assistant coach of the development team, with a head coach to be revealed shortly, United have said.
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About the author
To sign up to Liam’s latest Oxford United newsletter for free, click here: https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/newsletters/
Formerly the politics reporter for the Oxford Mail, Liam now covers all things Oxford United.
Liam attends the U’s home and away, as well as covering other big sports stories across the county.
His Oxford United newsletter is released every Saturday morning at 6am.
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