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Sunday, March 22, 2026

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Lauren Smith to depart the FA

England WU19s head coach Lauren Smith will leave her role following the April international window.

Smith will oversee the final round of qualifying for the UEFA Women’s U19 EURO before departing to pursue a new opportunity.

During her time at The FA, she helped secure qualification for the upcoming FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Poland through last summer’s U19 EURO and also enjoyed a successful period as interim head coach of the WU23s, guiding the team to qualification for the European competition semi finals.

WU23s head coach Lydia Bedford will lead the Young Lionesses at the U20 World Cup, while the coaching staff for this summer’s U19 EURO finals will be confirmed should qualification be secured.

Gavin Step, Women’s Technical Director at The FA, said: “I’d like to thank Lauren for everything she has contributed during her time with us over the past two seasons. She has played an important role in supporting the development of our young players and we wish her every success in her next challenge. The England pathway has a strong track record of developing not only talented young players, but coaches too, and it’s a point of pride for us that many go on to have brilliant careers in the game.

“It promises to be an exciting year for the Young Lionesses, with the potential for four tournaments across the age groups. We have some excellent coaches in place who will continue guiding the next generation, and I wish them all the best with the upcoming qualifiers.”