Brighton & Hove Albion have appointed former London City Lionesses boss Melissa Phillips as their new head coach on a two-and-a-half-year contract.

The American will be taking over a team that are rooted to the bottom of the Women’s Super League, with just nine points from 15 games so far.

Phillips is the third permanent manager that the Seagulls have had this season after Hope Powell and Jens Scheur, with the latter leaving the Amex after just six matches in charge.

With Brighton having two games in hand on those above them in the table, getting out of relegation trouble is not beyond the realms of possibility.

Before leaving the London City Lioneess to become an assistant at Angel City, Phillips had guided her team to the top of the Women’s Championship.

Brighton fans will be hoping that the 35-year-old can work some of her magic straight away. She has a daunting first game in charge, with the Seagulls taking on Manchester United in the Women’s FA Cup semi-final next weekend.