Liverpool boss Matt Beard has expressed his gratitude for being named the Barclays manager of the season after his team finished fourth in the Women’s Super League. This achievement marks Liverpool’s highest position since winning the WSL title in 2014. The team concluded the season with four consecutive victories, including wins over Chelsea and Manchester United, allowing them to finish above the latter.
Beard humbly acknowledged that the award is not just about him but a recognition of the collective effort of the entire staff and players. He highlighted the importance of the backroom team, emphasizing that their work behind the scenes often goes unnoticed. While appreciative of the accolade, Beard admitted feeling a bit embarrassed by the attention, recognizing that his success is thanks to the people he works with.
Looking ahead, Beard sees qualifying for the Champions League as the logical next step for Liverpool. Although they finished fourth behind Chelsea, Manchester City, and Arsenal, Beard believes they are capable of breaking into the top three. However, he acknowledges that it will be a challenging task, particularly with Manchester United’s strong investment in their team.
Reflecting on Liverpool’s journey this season, Beard credits their move into their own training facility as a crucial factor in their success. Previously sharing Tranmere’s training ground and later using the men’s AXA training centre, Liverpool returned to their former facility at Melwood. Beard attributes their improved performance to having their own dedicated space, allowing them to train and conduct sessions without disruptions or constraints.
The new facility not only provides practical benefits but also carries historical significance. Its world-class quality and rich history have had a positive impact on the players, creating a sense of pride and motivation within the team.
Overall, Beard’s recognition as manager of the season highlights Liverpool’s progress and sets the stage for their future ambitions. With their own training facility in place and a determined mindset, Liverpool aims to continue improving and ultimately secure a spot in the Champions League.