Taylor named new Pompey Ladies boss

Taylor succeeds Perry Northeast who stepped down from the role at the end of the 2015-16 Premier League campaign.

Chairman Mick Williams was keen to bring in a new manager as soon as possible as the club looks to build on the excellent foundations laid by Northeast and Vanessa Raynbird.

Williams was impressed with Taylor’s attitude and the experience he brings to the table.

He said: ‘I am delighted that Craig has agreed to join us as first-team manager.

‘He has a wealth of coaching experience and has previously worked in ladies football with Watford FC.

‘Craig is enthusiastic, well-qualified, determined and shares our vision for the future of Pompey Ladies.

‘I am absolutely sure that he is the right man to help us make our great club even greater.’

Taylor takes charge of Pompey following their Hampshire Cup success last season.

He said he was proud to be following in some impressive footsteps and was eager to get started.

‘I’m immensely proud,’ he said.

‘It’s going to be a challenge, it’s not going to easy by any stretch, especially following on from the good work set out by Perry and Vanessa.

‘I’m excited and it’ll just be nice to learn about the club before anything else happens.

‘I’ve lived in the city for the last 18 months and I know how much football means to Portsmouth.

‘It was a really intriguing opportunity and it’s comes at the right time as it’s a chance to really test myself.

‘What really sold it for me was speaking to Mick, Ann (Williams) and Keith (Briant) hearing their passion for the club.’