GARETH TAYLOR is "extremely excited" after being announced as head coach of Manchester City Women.

The 47-year-old, who has led City’s Under-18s for the past three seasons, having previously overseen the club’s Under-16s, succeeds Nick Cushing.

Former Wrexham and Wales striker Taylor has signed a three-year deal with City Women.

He said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have joined Manchester City Women and I’m extremely excited about the challenge ahead with a very talented group of players and staff who have enjoyed a lot of success in recent years.

“I’m really honoured to have been appointed to this role and I can’t wait to get started with our preparations for another thrilling and competitive FA WSL season in 2020/21.

“I’ve been very fortunate to have worked with some great people within Manchester City and the club’s academy so far, but I’m absolutely relishing my new role within City Football Group and I’ll be giving everything I have to continue Manchester City’s success and growth in the women’s game.”

Taylor will start his new role immediately and will be assisted by Alan Mahon who held the reins on a temporary basis earlier this year.

Head of Women’s Football, Gavin Makel, added: “I’m delighted to welcome Gareth into the role of Manchester City Women’s head coach.

“Over the last few years, I have been fortunate enough to see first-hand the qualities that Gareth possesses. Not only in terms of his abilities as a coach who develops individuals, but also in the way that he leads. 

“I am looking forward to working with Gareth as we enter this new era for the women’s team in which I am confident that we can continue to build upon the successes that we have had over the last six years.

“I would also like to add my thanks to Alan Mahon who stepped up in light of Nick’s departure and who continues to be an integral part of our operation.”