Bristol Academy close to naming Dave Edmondson's successor

Dave Edmondson was only in charge of Bristol Academy for 18 months

Bristol Academy could name Dave Edmondson's successor as early as Monday, says chairman Simon Arnold.

Head coach Edmondson was sacked on Thursday, 48 hours before the Women's Super League's bottom side were beaten 5-2 at home by Notts County.

Arnold said Edmondson's potential replacement is more in "the mould" of England Women's head coach and former Bristol boss Mark Sampson.

"Someone has thrown their hat in the ring and we are excited," said Arnold.

"It is someone that we have met before, that is known to the club, and someone that follows the club closely."

Arnold confirmed their target is currently working in the game in another country, but would not comment further.

"They are in employment and we have to respect their current employer and give them the opportunity to have a conversation," continued Arnold.

Saturday's defeat by the Lady Magpies left Bristol without a point in WSL 1 this term.

They have lost all seven games to date, as well as being knocked out of two competitions, and have now conceded 27 goals and scored just four.

"If we can stay in this league that would be fantastic achievement for the new manager from the position he is starting from," Arnold added.