Taking over from Sara Harnett and Jake Hemstock – who both left at the end of last season; the latter taking up a coaching position at AFC Mansfield – McManus has a wealth of experience, with a long history of male and female coaching throughout his career.

Currently assistant coach to both emerging talent and development for under 8-10 boys at Leicester City, he is also nearing toward achieving his UEFA ‘B’ Licence.

Previously, McManus – who hails from the Republic of Ireland – was part of the set-up at Nottingham Forest since 2011 and has held several key roles in the ladies and junior section and was assistant coach for the reserves until July 2020.

He was also lead coach for Grantham Town under 16s for the 2020-21 season.

On his appointment, Paul said: “Basford United Ladies is very much an up-and-coming team, with fantastic facilities and an extensive and experienced support network.

“The team have both the drive and ambitions to push for promotion this year and continue the journey all the way to the top.

As a coach, with many years’ experience in both the women’s and men’s game, I’m very much looking forward to the opportunity to work with such talented team of players and coaches.”

Ladies director of football Stephen Rooth expressed his gratitude to both Harnett and Hemstock before speaking of McManus’ appointment, saying: “We all wish both Sara and Jake the best for the future and want to thank them for the service they each gave Basford United Ladies throughout our first ever season.

“But I am delighted to welcome Paul as our new women’s head coach. We held an extensive recruitment process, and he was the most outstanding candidate throughout.

“Paul brings fantastic experience to Basford United at what is a hugely exciting time for the women’s programme at the club, given the interest and the crowds the team played in front of at the end of last season.

“In the last year, so much good work has gone on around the club, and we now look forward to Paul taking that to a new level this season, and in the seasons to come.”

Paul will take charge of his first game when the Ladies host Handsworth Miners Welfare Ladies at Greenwich Avenue on Sunday, August 6 (2pm).