Saints Women boss Allen talks expectations and relationship with Spacey-Cale.

13/07/2024 Simeon Football 0

New head coach Remi Allen declared that Southampton FC Women is the “perfect match” for her as she advances in her young coaching career.

The 33-year-old Remi Allen has been appointed as Marieanne Spacey-Cale’s replacement following Spacey-Cale’s transition to director of women’s football. Allen arrives after spending the final months of last season in charge of fellow Women’s Championship side London City Lionesses.

Asked why she felt Saints Women was the right move for her, the former England under-23s assistant pointed to the club’s philosophy. She said: “It feels incredible. It’s been a whirlwind few days but I’m happy to be here. It’s been really nice to get in, meet the players, meet the staff, and get used to new surroundings.”

Allen continued: “It’s a really exciting time. I’ve always respected Southampton as a club and the way they have gone about their business. They have done things the right way. That aligns with me and my character. It was sort of the perfect match.”

Allen is only the second head coach in Saints Women’s history, following Spacey-Cale who had been at the helm since the club reformed. The retired midfielder will continue to work closely with Spacey-Cale, who hopes to serve as a mentor for the young coach.

“I’m really privileged to be the head coach, but having Marieanne around, it’s not like she has gone anywhere,” Allen said. “She is going to be a massive support for me. She has been unbelievable so far in the first few weeks.”

“Moving into coaching is not something that has come overnight, I’ve been working towards it for years. I had a stint at London City. I learnt a lot from that experience. No matter how old you are, you are always learning day to day. I’m fresh, I’m new. I will make mistakes. I’m sure there will be good and there will be bad.”

“I’m buzzing to be here. I’m buzzing to learn. As a group of staff and players, we are striving for the same goal. It’s exciting.”

During her short stint in charge at London City Lionesses, Allen guided them clear of relegation worries before departing at the end of her contract. The former England youth international won her first three games in charge, earning her the Championship manager of the month award.

Asked what fans can expect from her Saints team, Allen explained: “Out of possession, we are going to be aggressive. We will get in teams’ faces, a little like I was as a player. In possession, we have a wonderful philosophy already. It’s down to me to evolve that slightly. I don’t want to give too much away. The fans should be excited. We are pushing to be the best that we can be.”