The appointment of Matt Wheatcroft as Basford United Ladies First Team Manager represents a significant step in the ongoing development and long-term ambition of the Ladies section of the football club.

With over 10 years’ experience in women’s football across both senior and academy environments, Matt brings a strong understanding of player development, competitive standards, and squad building. His background closely aligns with the club’s vision of creating a clear and sustainable Ladies & Girls pathway from junior football through to the first team.

Speaking on his appointment, Matt said:
“It’s great to be given the opportunity at Basford United and take over as the Ladies First Team Manager… Having been coaching in academy football for the last 10 years we know a lot of very good young talent from 16 to 21 years old and we will be looking to bring this talent into the club to give them opportunity for first team football and further development in the women’s game and to build something special.

"In the short term, the focus is on stabilising league position, improving organisation, and ensuring the current squad is competitive, while also identifying areas where the group can be strengthened. As Matt highlighted, “the first job is to get hold of the current team, see what’s going wrong and start to plug the holes straight away.”

Beyond the current season, the club’s ambitions remain clear. The Ladies section is focused on building a structure that supports long-term growth aimed at progression up the Ladies NLS pyramid, including the re-introduction of a development team, expansion of the junior girls’ pathway into what we hope will be an educational provision for U16-U19 girls with a direct pathway into the first team, and a return to Tier 5 football as quickly as possible.

As Matt added:
“The initial target this season is to stay up… Going forward we want to be ambitious and we certainly would like to see a return to tier 5 football again as quickly as possible.”

This appointment underlines Basford United’s commitment to providing opportunity, progression, and stability within the Ladies section, building strong foundations now to support sustainable success in the seasons ahead.

Joining Matt is new Assistant Manager David Harper and first team coach Gary Ball.

Welcome to the Ambers!