New Burnley Women manager Matt Beard _(Image: Burnley FC)_
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Burnley have appointed Matt Beard as the new manager of their Women's team.
Beard brings a wealth of experience, having previously worked at Liverpool, Chelsea and West Ham among others.
During his first spell on Merseyside, the 47-year-old won back-to-back WSL titles and led the Reds in their first Champions League campaign.
The appointment comes following the news that Burnley's Women's team will become a full-time professional outfit from the upcoming 2025/26 season.
“I’m absolutely delighted," said Beard. "I’m so impressed with everybody I’ve met at the club and the conversations I’ve had, and I’m looking forward to getting started.
“Everybody’s been so welcoming and Lola (Ogunbote) has been a big part of that.
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“I can promise the fan base, the players and the staff that I will work as hard as I can for them, with the aim of fulfilling our objectives.”
Beard also guided West Ham to the FA Cup final before returning to Liverpool, guiding the Reds back to the top flight.
Head of Women's Football Lola Ogunbote added: “We’re thrilled to welcome Matt to the club, it’s great to have him on board.
“We’ve been taking great strides forward here at Burnley and Matt’s appointment is a further statement of intent, our aims, and our ambition to be a successful football club.
“He is a coach with a wealth of knowledge and experience, and he has a real vision and passion for growing the women’s game.
“As we make the move to becoming a full-time professional women’s football team this season, it’s an incredibly exciting time for everyone here at the club.
“I’m looking forward to working closely with Matt to take the team to the next level and would like to thank our ownership group for their continued support.”