First words from the new Boss
Today, Reading FC Women were delighted to announce Liam Gilbert as the new First Team Manager.
With experience from America, Eastleigh, and most recently a five year spell at Oxford United Women, Liam spoke of his gratitude to all those who have helped him get to this point, and now is excited to take on a new challenge, a new league and delivering a style of football that “excites” the Reading supporters.
“You’ve used the word there, I’m just so excited to be at this fantastic club,” began Liam when talking about his new role.
“I know a lot about the club from playing against them over the years, what they stand for, their philosophies, the importance of the community and what the fans expect.
“And the position that I am now privileged to be in, it’s now my responsiblilty to drive everything to new levels, upwards and it’s a really exciting project to be a part of.
“My career to date, especially the last five years, have been unbelievable for me, both as a learning curve and life experience. I’ve taken so many lessons from that, and the main thing for me now is being here marks a fresh start.
“Obviously everything that has happened here is now in the past, it’s a new start for us all, and from watching training, we’ve got a really, really good talent group, and it’s ensuring we stick to our values and getting the buy-in from everyone around the club – this includes myself, my staff, players, community and the fans.
“Without the community and fans, what is a football club? Let’s be honest, you don’t operate without them.
“I’m really pleased that I get an opportunity to meet our season tickets ahead of the new season, at the season launch party next Wednesday evening, so I can say hello, introduce myself and what I will be striving to bring to them week on week. For me, it’s important to have that open communication and relationship with them, as we’re all one.
“Same goes for the incredible work done by the community, from grassroots all the way to academy. Without every single member doing their job, we don’t find ourselves where we are. That will be our identity, in everything we do.
“Just from being up and around training, seeing what we have in terms of playing personnel, and the conversations we are having, we have a style of play we want to bring in. Like with anything new, it can take time, putting the building blocks in place, and with each day on the training pitch and each game we play, we’ll get more confident and improve.
“We want to play aggressively, disciplined when we’re out of possession, be ruthless, and put in the performances that excites the fans and gets them on the edge of their seat.
“I’m just so looking forward to getting started, meeting everyone, and hopefully do all the right things for everyone to get behind us.”
Meet Liam before the season opener
Be one of the first to meet the new manager next Wednesday, at the Season Luanch Party.
Find out all the information about how to get your ticket below...
Meet Liam next Wednesday
Season Launch Party