Lisa Gale has left her role as first-team manager of Waterlooville AFC.

Waterlooville AFC and Lisa Gale have parted company.

A statement released by the club has confirmed Gale has stepped down from her role as first-team manager, less than five months after her appointment.

Family issues have been cited as the reason behind the decision, with Liam Bush already in place to ensure a smooth transition.

The statement read: ‘Waterlooville AFC can confirm that Lisa Gale will be stepping away from her position as First Team Manager due to family issues which require her focus at the current time.

‘Following discussions between Lisa and the club, it was agreed that stepping away from the demands of First Team management would allow her to give the necessary time and attention to her family.

‘Out of respect for Lisa and those closest to her, the club will not be commenting further on her personal circumstances.’

It continued: ‘Lisa has been involved during an important period in the early development of Waterlooville AFC, helping to guide the First Team through pre-season and into the opening stages of our first competitive campaign.

‘During that period, the club reached a number of significant milestones, including our first competitive fixture, the return of the Waterlooville name to league football and our opening league victory away to Nursling & Shirley Reserves.

‘Waterlooville AFC would like to thank Lisa for the time, commitment and work she has given during her period as First Team Manager. We wish Lisa and her family all the very best and fully respect her need to focus on matters away from football.’

Waterlooville AFC owner Lee Stainton, who revived the club after a 27-year absence, turned to Gale in May following the departure of previous manager, former Pompey player Jack Maloney, who hadn't taken charge of a game at the time.

She was named the club’s first-team boss after building up a reputation for herself in local footballing circles.

A former assistant to ex-Hawks boss Shaun Gale at Infinity FC, the Uefa C licence coach was tasked with utilising her experience in coaching, player development and team management, along with her knowledge of grassroots and youth football, to aid the continued rebirth and development of the club.

After beginning her coaching career with Lee Rangers in 2015, Gale established a successful youth side at Gosport Borough that went on to secure many titles, including the under-18 Mid-Solent Youth League A title.

According to the Southampton Saturday Football League premier division side’s website, the club have won two (one on penalties), drawn two and lost one of their five competitive matches to date.

Waterlooville are next in action on Saturday when they play host to Upham.

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