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Julian Dicks' appointment as West Ham Ladies boss welcomed by Liverpool Ladies midfielder

Image: Gemma Davison: Has welcomed West Ham's appointment of Julian Dicks

Julian Dicks' appointment as West Ham Ladies manager gives women's football a "different dimension", according to Liverpool Ladies midfielder Gemma Davison.

The former Liverpool and England full-back took charge of FA Women's Premier League side West Ham last week following a stint coaching women's football in America.

Davison played extensively in the US early in her career and believes Dicks' arrival at West Ham is a coup for the women's game.

"I think it's a really good thing, a really good appointment which gives women's football a different dimension," the Barnet-born forward told Sky Sports.

"We're trying to make women's football bigger and male pros coming into the game definitely adds interest and brings publicity that will help it grow even more.

"He's someone who's had a lot of professional playing experience so I think he will pass on a lot of knowledge to his players.

"You've got to have females in there as well because they understand how females work, but having played some football with ex-pros who come and watch me play, what they say is bang on. You learn so much just from listening to them.

"What are you going to say to someone who has had so many Premier League appearances? There is no way you're not going to listen to him.

"Experience like that is irreplaceable and it can't get better than that at the end of the day."

Davison is back in action this weekend as Liverpool Ladies entertain FA Cup winners Arsenal in the FA Women’s Super League as play resumes following the mid-season break.

Earlier this week the FA announced plans to expand the WSL's second-tier beginning from 2016 and Davison has welcomed the move.

"It's a brilliant decision because we need to be playing more games if we want to develop women's football," the 27-year-old said.

"They were trying to do something similar in America but the league broke down when I was over there.

"But women's football is on the up here in England. The clubs competing now are solid and reliable and are here to stay."

Liverpool Ladies’ next match is against Arsenal Ladies on Sunday 29th June at the Select Security Stadium in Widnes (12:15pm kick off) and is part of the Battle of the two Cities.

Following the Reds clash with the Gunners, Merseyside rivals Everton will be taking on Chelsea (3:15pm kick off) with supporters buying a ticket permitted to watch both games.

Tickets available from liverpoolfc.com/ladiestickets

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