Brighton Women have appointed Melissa Phillips as their new head coach.
The 35-year-old American has signed a contract that will keep her at the Women’s Super League club until June 2025.
She succeeds caretaker manager Amy Merricks, who was in charge following the departure of former England women’s manager Hope Powell.
Brighton are bottom of the WSL but have two games against the three teams above them, with just three points separating the four sides.
Phillips, who led the London City Lionesses to the top of the Women’s Championship in January before leaving for Angel City, also faces Brighton’s FA Cup semi-final on April 15 against Manchester United.
“I’m excited to be here and can’t wait to get started,” said Phillips. “It’s a great feeling to join this club and I look forward to working with the team.
“I’ve had positive conversations with the club and I knew it was the right decision to return to England. I am fully aware of our position but confident that we can grow and move up the table.”
Brighton Women chairwoman Michelle Walder added: “We are delighted to welcome Melissa as our new head coach of the women’s first team.
“Amy Merricks has done a fantastic job in difficult circumstances over the past few weeks which has allowed us to go through a thorough process to bring Melissa onboard. Thanks to Amy, Perry Northeast and the rest of the team we are excited for our FA Cup semi-final against Manchester United.”
Brighton Women and Girls chief executive Zoe Johnson added: “We’re really looking forward to starting working with Melissa, helping her settle in and supporting her on some very immediate short-term goals with the upcoming cup and league games support.”
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