London City Lionesses Head Coach Lisa Fallon issues instructions during the match London City Lionesses v Sheffield United Women, Womens Championship football match, Princes Park Stadium, Dartford, UK - 06 Sep 2020 Photo: Robin Parker for The FA

London City Lionesses head coach opts to stand down from role

London City Lionesses head coach Lisa Fallon has stepped down from her role due to family reasons.

The Dubliner was appointed into the role at the end of May but has determined that it is in the best interests of her family to step down after being unable to find a workable solution.

London City Lionesses informed FA Women’s Super League Full-Time of the news earlier this afternoon via an official club press release.

The Dartford-based club played just five matches under the guidance of Fallon and her assistant Melissa Phillips will now take charge of The Pride initially on a caretaker basis. London City Lionesses have not yet made a decision on the future of their head coach position and a further announcement is expected to be made in due course. Whoever takes on the role in the future will inherit a talented young squad of players who are undoubtedly capable of more than their current league position suggests.

After her departure was announced, Fallon issued her thanks to everyone associated with the club and gave her backing to caretaker boss Phillips ahead of Sunday’s pivotal fixture against London Bees at Princes Park.

Fallon said “It is with a very heavy heart that today, I step away from my role as Head Coach of the London City Lionesses due to family reasons.

“Being appointed as Head Coach at this club was both an honour and a privilege – and was a very proud day for my family. I thank everyone at the club sincerely for their understanding in me prioritising my family’s needs at this time.

“With my family based in Dublin, and the team based in London, the logistics of travelling to meet the needs of both – whilst in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic – are no longer viable.

“I am extremely grateful to our Chairwoman, Diane Culligan, and the Board, for their compassion over the past few weeks.

“I also want to thank all of the players, staff and their families for their incredible work, commitment and application since I commenced the role. It has been a genuine privilege to work with you and I continue to believe in the potential and ambitions of you all – both as individuals, a team and a club.

“I have witnessed first-hand the tremendous work that’s being invested both on-and-off the pitch to build strong foundations at this club. I look forward to seeing the fruits of that work pave the pathway for many current and future London City Lionesses to live their dreams in football.

“Having worked closely with Melissa Phillips over the past few months, I know she is a talented coach and brings great experience to the club. With all the expertise and dedication of the backroom staff, she will continue to develop this team in a very positive way and I’m excited to see the progressions.”

London City Lionesses will be looking to record their first victory of the season against city rivals London Bees on Sunday in what will be caretaker Phillips’ first match in interim charge.

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