ALIYAH Anthony says her new role as head coach of Oxford City Women is the perfect fit.

The former Court Place Farm captain is her hometown team’s first female manager.

Anthony started playing for City at Under 15 level and went on to skipper the senior side, before becoming a coach at Watford.

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She joined the club’s Velocity football and education programme in July 2019 and revealed her new role is a dream come true.

“City was always like a family to me and I’ve never really left the place,” she told their official website.

“Coming back and having the chance as head coach is something I’ve always wanted to happen. For me personally, I want to inspire the ladies and I want that to show on the pitch.

“We have the Oxford City girls’ sides all the way up to the first team. It’s my job to oversee all of this and make sure the girls are all supported and know that there is a key pathway to the first team.

“I want everyone to know that we’re trying to build the whole female programme, not just the first-team side of things.

“As well as the club, there’s the Velocity pathway. Now, it’s about giving those girls a chance to shine in the trials and get in our first team.”

Anthony will be assisted by Ben Lucas, who guided City to the Oxfordshire FA Women’s Cup last season.

Lauren Haynes, female head coach at Velocity and captain of Oxford United Women, will also offer her support.

Anthony wasted no time in preparing for the new season in FA Women’s Football League Southern, putting potential players through their paces with open trials at Court Place Farm yesterday.

City co-owner Justin Merritt said: “We are delighted with the appointment of Aliyah.

“She is a fantastic coach, role model and a leader and will be an amazing appointment for the club as the first female head coach of Oxford City Women.

“We’re really excited to have her on board and her efficiency and enthusiasm is infectious.

“It will be a really positive environment. Coupled with Ben Lucas as assistant coach and Lauren Haynes supporting behind the scenes, we have a great team and the future is bright at Oxford City for progression of female footballers.”