Leicester City fires coach due to alleged relationship with player

NOS Football•today, 00:38

Leicester City has fired Willie Kirk because the women’s team coach “breached the code of conduct,” according to a statement from the club. According to English media, the 45-year-old Scot had a relationship with one of his players.

“Following an extensive internal disciplinary process and in respect of the club’s obligations regarding individual privacy, it has been determined that Willie has breached the team’s code of conduct to an extent that makes his position untenable,” the club said.

Sarina Wiegman, national coach of the English football women, spoke out earlier this week about relationships between trainers and players. “I think a relationship between a player and the coach is very inappropriate,” she said. “I don’t think we should accept that. That’s not healthy.”

Earlier this month, Kirk was suspended by Leicester because an investigation had been launched following a complaint against the coach. He has been coach of the Leicester women since November 2022, after previously briefly serving as technical director of the women’s branch.

Assistant Jennifer Foster will take over his duties for the time being. Leicester are ninth in the Women’s Super League. Former Ajax player Lize Kop is under contract with the club.