SOUTHAMPTON FC have appointed Remi Allen as their new head coach to replace Marieanne Spacey-Cale.

The 33 year old joins the club after taking charge of fellow Barclays Women’s Championship side London City Lionesses from March until the end of the 2023/24 season.

Allen replaces Spacey-Cale after the former England international decided to step off the grass and into a more senior role as director of women's football.

In her first head coach role, Allen she succeeded in the task of lifting London City out of a relegation.

Her time in charge began with three consecutive wins that included triumphs against two promotion contenders.

She won the March Championship manager of the month award before departing London City at the end of her contract.

Allen said: “I am absolutely delighted to be on board with such an incredible football club.

"It’s such an exciting time to be here, the club has huge ambition, and the group of players here are such a talented group. 

“I can’t wait to get started on the journey; it’s going to be an exciting season ahead.”

Remi Allen has been appointed Southampton FC Women Head CoachRemi Allen has been appointed Southampton FC Women Head Coach (Image: Southampton FC)

When speaking to the Daily Echo earlier this year, Spacey-Cale outlined her desire to appoint a coach who is experienced at developing players.

READ MORE: Spacey-Cale outlines future for Southampton FC Women and new boss plan

Allen fits that bill having previously worked as England's under-23s assistant coach, working alongside the likes of Kayla Rendell.

With her coaching successor confirmed, Spacey-Cale said: “We’re delighted to welcome Remi to the club as she becomes our new Head Coach, and we begin the next stage of our journey.

"Remi is an exciting, young coach with both recent playing experience and a passion to succeed in the early stages of her transition to management. 

“She brings energy and fresh ideas that I believe our players will thrive on, and I look forward to seeing her begin working with the team ahead of the new season.”

Remi Allen (right) during her time playing for Leicester City in the WSLRemi Allen (right) during her time playing for Leicester City in the WSL (Image: PA)

Allen's coaching journey follows a 16-year playing career, with a wealth of experience across the Women’s Super League and Championship.

Her more recent clubs include Aston Villa and Birmingham City. She also had two stints at hometown club Leicester City.

Southampton FC will be looking to build on their history-making campaign last season which was them achieve a record-high fourth-place finish.

Spacey-Cale's Saints claimed 39 points, seeing them finish seven points behind league champions Crystal Palace.

Saints have already signed four new players ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, including three England under-23 internationals with whom Allen has worked with previously.

Welsh international Rachel Rowe was the first signing with Freya Gregory (loan), Tara Bourne and Fran Stenson following.

The Women’s Championship season is set to get underway during the weekend of September 7-8.