Vixens benefit from Rene Meulensteen's coaching

Meulensteen, who spent 12 years at Manchester United, is spending the next few days with the Vixens and is also watching the friendly fixture with Liverpool this weekend.

After the conclusion of the first session, he said: “I really enjoyed it, I have been looking forward to this ever since we planned it.

“After much deliberation, we found a date and a time to do it. I don't know the level of WSL 1, but this team is very hard working and there are some really skilful players in the squad, so they could be a real threat this year.

“When I agreed to do this, I didn't want to do just one session. I am doing multiple sessions and I am also giving a presentation to the girls for the squad and myself to feel the full benefit of it.”

The Blasters head coach was asked by club captain and family friend Millie Turner to coach the Vixens during the summer at a social function.

He added: “The Turner family are very good friends of ours and have been for many years; our children grew up together.

“When I was at United, I coached Millie because she was in our centre of excellence and when she moved here she asked me to take a session again and I didn't hesitate to say yes.”

Season cards are on sale now, buy here.