Former Aston Villa manager Carla Ward is set to join Emma Hayes’ staff for the United States women’s national team at the Paris Olympic Games.
Hayes left Chelsea after 12 years at the end of the Women’s Super League season to become the head coach of the US women’s national team.
Ward stepped down from her role as Villa manager at the same time, having previously told BBC Sport that balancing the responsibilities of being a WSL manager and a mother was challenging.
The two English coaches developed a strong friendship during their time in the WSL. With Hayes preparing to lead the US team in her first major tournament this summer, she hopes Ward’s expertise will enhance the team’s performance.
Ward will take on a flexible role that includes performance analysis and opposition scouting.
The Olympic Games officially begin with the opening ceremony in Paris on Friday, July 26, but the women’s football tournament starts on Thursday.
The US women’s team is aiming for their fifth gold medal. They drew 0-0 with Costa Rica in their final warm-up match last week and will face Zambia in their opening group game of the tournament on Thursday at 20:00 BST.