Beard took charge of the team in June _(Image: Burnley FC)_

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Burnley FC Women have announced that Matt Beard has resigned from his position to "pursue other opportunities".
Beard, who took over in June, has been placed on three months' gardening leave with immediate effect.
Louise Roberts will take interim charge of the side, with support from Liam Gilbert and Paul Jenkins, while the club searched for Beard's replacement.
[An official update](https://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/content/burnley-fc-womens-update-beard-placed-on-gardening-leave) read: Burnley FC are disappointed to confirm Women’s team manager Matt Beard has resigned from his position to pursue other opportunities.
"Beard has been placed on three-months gardening leave with immediate effect. The club’s search for Beard’s replacement is already underway.
In the meantime, first team coach Louise Roberts will step in as interim manager, with fellow first team coach Liam Gilbert assisting her during this period. Paul Jenkins, director of football development, will provide additional off-pitch support."
Burnley have taken four points from their opening couple of league games including victory against Middlesbrough. The Clarets also beat Chorley in the FA Women’s National League Cup.
Chairman Alan Pace added: “We’re naturally very disappointed with Matt’s decision, but we’re already looking positively to the future to ensure we remain on track to achieve our objectives for the 2025/26 season and beyond.
“Whilst our recruitment process continues, we have full confidence in Louise, Liam and Paul, ably supported by Lola Ogunbote (Women’s Head of Football), to continue moving Burnley FC Women’s team forward in a positive direction.”