Southampton Saints team manager Sue Lopez believes Trevor Brooking is just the man to help steer women's football in the right direction.

The appointment of the 55-year-old former England captain as the FA's director of football development has brought a buzz to the game and Lopez is particularly pleased that the women will be part of his remit.

Previously the women's game was looked after by Steve Parkin, who was last week sacked as National Game director amid sweeping changes at Soho Square.

Lopez, who doubles up as Southampton FC's director of women's football, said: "It's good to hear that Trevor Brooking is going to be in charge of the technical and development sides of the women's game.

"I often came across him when he was chairman of Sport England and he's very switched-on and open-minded towards the women's game - and a gentleman too.

"It's hard work sometimes trying to push the women's game on and I feel very relieved to have someone like Trevor overseeing things. It'll be good for the game and it seems the right moment to bring someone like him in."

Southampton Saints switch their attention from the league to the Women's FA Cup this Sunday (1pm) when they travel to Coventry City in the third round.