Watford name Hector as new boss of women's team

Renee Hector also had a spell with Tottenham Women during her playing career

Watford have appointed former defender Renee Hector as the new head coach of the women's side.

She replaces Damon Lathrope, who switched to the men's team as assistant to their new boss, Tom Cleverley.

Watford were relegated from the second-tier Women's Championship last season, just 12 months on from winning promotion.

"I always hoped one day I would manage this football club," said Hector, who steps up from head of youth development, having also worked with the England Under-17 team."

She added: "I have been affiliated with the club for around 18 years, and I am so grateful that they have put their trust in me to lead this extremely talented group of players."

Meanwhile, general manager Helen Ward has moved to a new role of head of women's football.

"She’s been a player, a captain and has held other key roles at Watford – quite apart from being the club’s all-time top female goalscorer," chief executive Scott Duxbury told the club website.

"Her voice will be a key addition at the club’s senior management meetings, aligning with our ambition to grow women’s football in a sustainable and responsible manner."