Sheffield United confirm Leeds United favourite Neil Redfearn as women's head coach

OLD BOY - Neil Redfearn is a former Leeds United coach and manager, now taking charge at Sheffield United Women. Pic: Getty

It is Redfearn's third appointment in women's football, having previously managed Doncaster Rovers Belles and Liverpool Ladies, with the latter being a brief spell in the summer of 2018.

During his time with Doncaster, the Belles won the FA WSL 2 title in May 2018, their first trophy since 1994.

Redfearn, a legend in his playing days at Barnsley with Doncaster Rovers and Bradford City also among his other clubs, latterly worked as under-23 coach at Newcastle United, his last role in the game.

The 55-year-old enjoyed a successful spell at Leeds academy, having to bring through the likes of Sam Byram, Lewis Cook, Alex Mowatt and Kalvin Phillips and was head coach for most of the 2014-15 season.

He has also previously served as caretaker boss for three brief separate spells.

Redfearn replaces Carla Ward, who has since joined Birmingham.

On being appointed, Redfearn said: "It's very exciting. It's a massive club and the women's team has made good strides over the past couple of seasons, so it's a good place to be."

Last month, former Leeds and Barnsley head coach Paul Heckingbottom joined the Blades men's team as their lead U23 coach.