England U23 head coach Lydia Bedford’s ‘full circle’ moment

Returning as head coach for England Women’s under-23s felt like a “full circle moment” for Lydia Bedford.

The 38-year-old began her coaching career with the Football Association and has managed several youth teams, including England’s under-15s, 16s and 17s.

She became the first woman to hold a coaching position at a Premier League club when she took over Brentford’s under-18s boys’ academy in 2023.

And she has gathered first team women’s football experience as manager of Women’s Super League side Leicester City and Canadian club Calgary Wild, as well as previously taking on an assistant coach role at Arsenal.

Her career has been varied and rewarding, but Bedford has always eyed a return.

“I’ve got fulfilment out of every decision that I’ve made in my career so far and each [experience] has been great in their own way,” she said.

“But it kind of feels like a full circle moment to be able to come back. The job I always wanted growing up was to be England manager one day.

“You’ve got to get experiences that will help you along the way. Why would I not want to come back and be in an under-23s environment to help our senior team tick the next the box, which is to win the Women’s World Cup next year?

“I’m also looking forward to singing the English national anthem. I’ve heard a lot of the Canadian national anthem in the last few weeks!”

Who better for Bedford to learn from than three-time European champion Sarina Wiegman?

The Lionesses head coach will work closely with Bedford at St George’s Park on the development of England’s youth players.

“Seeing the success of the senior team over the last few years and knowing how closely I’d be able to work with Sarina and her staff in this role, it seemed like a bit of a no-brainer [to return],” added Bedford.

“It’s a great opportunity to learn from someone I consider to be the world’s best and to help to provide the next group of players to compete to win more.”