Carla Ward leaves Sheffield United

Carla Ward has left Sheffield United: George Wood/Getty Images

Steve Bettis, the Premier League club’s chief executive, explained the decision was taken after “both parties opted to go down a different path” ahead of the new season.

Ward enjoyed huge success after arriving at United four years ago, helping them secure a place in the FA Championship and then steering them to second when the campaign was abandoned because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"I want to place on record my thanks to everyone at the football club for the opportunity to work at what's been a very special club,” Ward said in a statement published on United’s official website. “From the moment I walked in, every single department has been so supportive and fully backing of the women's team and I can't thank them enough for that, it gave me an opportunity to learn and develop in my role and allowed us to achieve what we have on the pitch.For now a new fresh challenge is needed and I wish everyone at the football club the very best of luck."

Confirming a replacement will be appointed before the start of the new season, Bettis added:"On behalf of the owner, board and everyone at the club, I'd like to place on record our thanks to Carla for the four years of service.

"Carla was instrumental in the club achieving FA Championship status in 2018 and also in the women's team reaching their highest ever position in the pyramid before the 2019-20 season was curtailed.

"However, both parties have opted to go down a different path. We will announce a new head coach in due course to be ready for the start of the 2020-21 campaign."

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