Bristol City Women FC: FA approve Bristol Academy rebrand

Bristol Academy were relegated from Women's Super League One in 2015

The Women's Super League has approved Bristol Academy's application for a name change.

From next season, they will be known as Bristol City Women's Football Club.

Bristol were relegated to WSL 2 last season and despite the rebrand will still play at Stoke Gifford Stadium and remain independent of men's Championship side Bristol City FC.

"Without this change, the club would not be able to survive in the medium term," said club chairman Simon Arnold.

"This football club is only here so that young girls can aspire to play professional football in Bristol."

He hopes the move will not deter potential supporters among fans of League Two Bristol Rovers from following the team.

"The whole Board of Bristol Academy WFC recognises the sensitivities for some supporters of changing our name and aligning with Bristol City, in a city which has firm allegiances to our two football clubs," Arnold added.

"Although some spectators may be lost, which will be disappointing, I am sure that true supporters of women's football will stay with us and cheer us on next season."