Mel Clewlow believes Canterbury Ladies can mount a serious title assault next season after appointing Ian Jennings as their new coach.

Clewlow previously worked under Jennings when he was involved with the England women’s team, and believes his arrival at Polo Farm can help move the squad on to the next level.

Clewlow, who was Canterbury player-coach last season, explained: "When we came to draw up the list of people we wanted he was right at the top.

"We were looking for someone who could improve the club and if anyone can get an extra five per cent out of the team it’s him."

Jennings, 45, enjoyed an illustrious career as a player, enjoying three spells at Guildford, and as coach he steered the Surrey side out of Division 2 South and into the top four of Premier Division. He also coached Slough Ladies to success in the formative years of the National League set-up.

Clewlow added: "Ian’s style is different to what we’re used to but he’s honest and he’s a natural born winner.

"I think at Canterbury we all need to push ourselves a little harder. We’ve definitely got a squad good enough to win the league but we’ve never done that so hopefully Ian will help us achieve our goal."

Full story in this week's Kentish Gazette