Former manager, Chris Welburn

Chris Welburn has stepped down as Manager of Leeds United Ladies owing to new work, continued study and personal commitments.

Welburn guided the club to a best-ever second place in the FA Women’s Premier League National Division as well as the Final of the FA Women’s Premier League Cup in the 2011-2012 season, his second spell with the club and his first as first-team manager.

“I’m sad to be leaving after seven seasons with the club,” he said, “but the change in my work commitments means I’m unable to devote the time needed to take this fantastic club to even greater heights than those we’ve achieved this season.

“But I am pleased that I’m able to leave after our most successful season ever. Everyone associated with the club puts heart and soul into their work, and act with the utmost professionalism, and after the work put in by Chairman Steve Russell, Ringways Motor Group and the Leeds United Foundation I know that I’m leaving a club on the up. I’ll continue to follow the club’s fortunes in the Premier League – and, I hope, beyond.”

“On behalf of everyone at the club, I’d like to thank Chris for his work with Leeds United Ladies, and in particular his management of what has been a wonderful season,” said club Chairman, Steve Russell. “He has imbued the players with the confidence and skills to reach ever-greater heights, exceeding all our expectations of 12 months ago.

“A club like ours is always going to be a big commitment and Chris has never given us less than his best, so I fully understand why he would want to stand down as Manager to concentrate on his work, study and personal lives. I’m sure that everyone associated with the club wishes him the absolute best going forward.

“Our thoughts now turn to the 2012-2013 season, and we hope to have a new manager in place in time for our trials at the end of June.”