Clinton Lancaster has continued his rise up the ladder to become Watford Ladies new head coach.

The former assistant coach takes over from Armand Kavaja, who will continue to work with the Golden Girls. But he has taken a step back after securing a new role with Watford’s Academy as Under-15/16 lead phase coach to which he will need to commit more time.

Lancaster joined the club in October 2016 and having worked as the development team’s head coach, he moved up to the position of first-team assistant coach in December 2017.

He told the club website: “I am so proud to have been given this opportunity of head coach at this fantastic club and this excellent group of players.

“I, Armand and the rest of the staff are very excited to see where this season can lead us and we are confident it will be one to remember.”

Kavaja, whose new title will be coach developer, said: “I would like to congratulate Clinton on his new role, he has worked really hard during the three years he has been in the club and deserved the opportunity.

“I look forward to the season ahead that we have worked on together with the ladies, and working closely with Clinton and the coaching staff to help them all become successful.”