Wrexham appoint ex-FA coach as new women's football lead

Wrexham Women conceded late on to draw with Adran Premier title holders Cardiff City in their most recent match

Wrexham have turned to the English Football Association (FA) for a key appointment in their bid to boost their women's programme.

Co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have both been vocal in their ambition for the women's set-up at the Stok Cae Ras.

Now the north Wales club have brought in former FA employee Mark Swales as their new director of women's football.

Swales had most recently worked as senior women's coach development lead with the FA, which included helping current and former Lionesses take on their coaching badges.

He will now take the lead on the women's game at Wrexham, including overseeing the club's academy.

Wrexham Women play in the Adran Premier having become a semi-pro side when they were promoted to the Welsh women's top flight two years ago.

Coached by summer appointment Jenny Sugarman, they are second in the table behind champions Cardiff City on goal difference.

On the appointment, Wrexham chief executive Michael Williamson said: "Mark's knowledge and technical know-how will provide the right framework and environment to allow Wrexham AFC Women to perform consistently to the very highest standards, while developing the next generation of player talents through the [academy]."

In a social media post, Swales said he would oversee strategy at both elite and development level, including taking a lead on recruitment and linking the women's programme with the board and ownership group.

In a statement announcing his arrival, Swales added: "I'm incredibly proud to be joining at such an exciting time for the women's game.

"The club's ambition and commitment to driving standards on and off the pitch is something that drew me to the club. I'm looking forward to supporting our staff and players as we continue to build something truly special."