Nikita Runnacles appointed Assistant Coach ahead of 2022/23 season

London City Lionesses are pleased to announce the appointment of current First Team Goalkeeping Coach, Nikita Runnacles, to the position of Assistant Coach.

Runnacles joined the Lionesses back in the 2020/21 season, and has been a staple in the backroom team ever since.

Her new role will see her continue to work predominantly with the first team goalkeepers, alongside providing assistance to Head Coach Melissa Phillips and the rest of the team.

Asked how it feels to have accepted this new role with London City, Runnacles said:

“It’s exciting to be able to give myself full time to the club,” said Runnacles, “It’s great to be able to work with all the players, not just specifically goalkeepers, and work together to move the club forward.”

But just what exactly will Runnacles’ new role entail?

“I’ll still be involved in all the classic goalkeeper stuff, making sure they’re ready and prepared going into a game,” she said, “but on top of that, I’ll be working with the outfield players and helping them develop into even better players, which will, in turn, develop us into an even better team.”

And what goals does she have going into this new position at the club?

“For me, the main goal is always making sure that the team is successful, pushing in the right direction and being the best that we can be.”

Speaking on the appointment, Sporting Director Edward Gallagher said:

“I’m delighted that we have been able to add Nikita to our technical staff in a full-time capacity.

“Melissa has done a fantastic job leading our first team and it’s important that we create a strong technical team around her to ensure our players receive the highest level of support.

“Nikita has provided that support over the last two seasons and moving her into this full-time role will only aid in the club progressing on the pitch.”

Gallagher went onto add:

“She has a solid football foundation built on playing at a high level and then coaching both at the FA Women’s Championship level, but also on the international stage with the England Youth National Team’s.

“Building a staff with varied experiences in important and as a coach with both goalkeeping and outfield qualifications, she will be a great addition to our team.”

Runnacles will be continuing in her part time role until the end of season, at which point she will take up her new position.