Returning as head coach for England Women's under-23s felt like a "full circle moment" for Lydia Bedford. The 38-year-old began her coaching career with the Football Association and has managed several youth teams, including England's under-15s, 16s and 17s. And she has gathered first team women's football experience as manager of Women's Super League side Leicester City and Canadian club Calgary Wild, as well as previously taking on an assistant coach role at Arsenal. "But it kind of feels like a full circle moment to be able to come back. The Lionesses head coach will work closely with Bedford at St George's Park on the development of England's youth players.

Source: BBC April 09, 2026 19:57 UTC