Christiansen named England U23s assistant coach

Izzy Christiansen has worked in media since retiring from football

Former Lioness Izzy Christiansen has been named assistant coach of the England Women's Under-23s squad.

The 34-year-old was capped 31 times for England and represented Birmingham City, Manchester City, Lyon and Everton during her career.

She retired in 2023 after making over 150 appearances in the Women's Super League and will join head coach Emma Coates and assistant Gemma Davies in her new role.

Christiansen's new position is in addition to her job as head coach of Manchester City Women's Under-21s, as well as various roles within media.

Speaking about Christiansen's appointment, Coates told BBC Sport: "Myself and Gemma [Davies] got into coaching really young but we haven't played at the top, top level.

"Izzy adds that angle. She has played in the games [the under-23s are] playing in and her experience speaks for itself.

"She's someone the players can connect to on a different level. She delivered the training session on Monday and it was brilliant.

"I'm excited for her to get her teeth into it. She's another great person to get involved with our coaching team for sure."