Bristol City name Kirby as women's manager

Bristol City Women are set to name Leicester City’s Stephen Kirby as manager.

Kirby, currently Leicester City Women’s first-team coach, acted as interim manager for the Foxes alongside Jennifer Foster last season.

He has previously worked with MK Dons’ academy and development squads.

Bristol City have been without a manager since Lauren Smith stepped down from her role 12 days before the Women’s Championship season kicked off.

Smith, who left to take up a role within the Football Association as England Under-19s head coach, led Bristol City to promotion to the Women's Super League in 2023 and their subsequent relegation a season later.

Bristol City have drawn their opening two league games of the season against Southampton and Birmingham City.

They face London City Lionesses on Sunday.