Melissa Phillips resigned as head coach of the women’s team effective immediately.
For the time being, Mikey Harris will lead in an interim capacity with assistance from Owen Fisher and the present women’s first-team technical staff.
“This is not a decision which has been taken lightly, but we feel it is vital for the progress we want to see in the Women’s Super League,” stated David Weir, technical director.
“Going into this season, we made significant investments in the women’s squad and facilities, and given that investment, the results and performances have not been up to par.
“We appreciate Melissa’s efforts and wish her the best of luck in the future on behalf of the entire club.”
Zoe Johnson, managing director for women, continued, saying, “I want to thank David again and wish Melissa the best of luck in her future endeavors.
“WSL, FA Cup, and Conti Cup matches against Manchester United this Sunday, and Aston Villa and Wolves the following week, are the immediate priorities. We’re also starting the search for a permanent head coach.”
Mikey, a coach with a UEFA Pro License, joins from the men’s academy, where he has experience with the under-21 and under-18 squads. During his last tenure with the club, he led the under-18 team at Albion.
Along with managing Salisbury City’s men’s squad in 2013–14, he has also served as assistant manager for the England under-18 team and under-18 manager for Portsmouth and Southampton.
Owen also leaves the academy, having advanced to the under-21 squad in 2021 after joining as a goalkeeping coach there in 2017. Additionally, he has served as an interim goalkeeping coach for the women’s first team.
