Norwich City Ladies have appointed Darren Moss as manager as they prepare for next season's bid to reach the National League.

He will start working with the squad this month when pre-season training begins for the Canaries, who finished second in the South-East Combination table last year but fell at the play-offs hurdle.

The new season kicks off on Sunday August 14 and Moss is looking forward to the challenge ahead.

He said: 'I am thrilled to have been offered the opportunity to work with Norwich City Ladies.

'They narrowly missed out on promotion last season and although there have been some forced changes to playing personnel through work and university, myself and the rest of the existing management team are looking forward to this season's challenge.

'I believe the squad is full of quality players, and we are already looking to add some new faces, I personally feel that this club has the potential and ability to reach the National League this season and that is our goal.'

Moss' managerial career in the women's game covers some 15 years and it started at his local club Aylsham Town where he guided the squad from the county league championship and cup double through Division Two and Division One of the Eastern Region Women's League as champions, therefore gaining promotion to the Premier from the county league in just four seasons.

He already has experience of coaching in the South-East Combination having worked with Norwich after their merger with Norwich City Canaries.

He also recently guided the Norfolk County FA Women's representative squad to two consecutive East Anglian titles and spent two years coaching the under-16 squad within the Norwich Girls' Centre of Excellence .

He works full-time as a Football Development Officer for Norfolk FA and is also an FA Tutor and Coach Educator so therefore works full time in the game.

Club spokesperson Emma Fletcher said: 'We are delighted to have secured Darren as the ladies' first team manager this coming season and are looking forward to working with him. He has vast knowledge and experience within the women's game that will really help the club move forward.'

Norwich City Ladies are holding an open evening and trial session for current and new players on Thursday June 16 at Easton College, Norwich from 7 to 8.30pm. They are particularly hoping to recruit some goalkeepers.

If you would like to attend or would like further information contact emma.fletcher@ncfc-canaries.co.uk