Loren Dykes: Wales defender returns to Cardiff City Ladies after taking up coaching role with Bristol City
Wales international Loren Dykes has returned to Cardiff City Ladies, 11 years after leaving the club.
It comes after the defender, who has made over 150 appearances for Bristol City, yesterday announced she will take up a role as assistant coach with Women’s Super League club next season.
She will combine her role working under the Robins’ boss Tanya Oxtoby whilst playing in the FA Women’s National League for her first club.
Dykes became the second player, alongside Jess Fishlock, to make 100 appearances for Wales when she featured against the Czech Republic in April last year.
And she was awarded an MBE in the 2020 New Year’s Honours List for her services to women’s football in Wales.
A two-time FA Women’s Cup finalist, Dykes has also played in the UEFA Women’s Champions League during her career.
She has become an integral part of Jayne Ludlow’s side on the international stage, but has not called time on her Wales career just yet.
“It wasn’t a decision that I made lightly,” said Dykes.
“I gave it a lot of time and thought but I feel at this stage in my career it was the right time to make my transition from player into coach and start a new chapter.
“Eleven years at one club is a long time, I’ve loved it here and it has been my home, now it’ll be my home from a different perspective.
“It’s been tough at times, as is it as every club, but, like I said, I’ve loved it and would like to thank all the managers I’ve played under, the staff, the players I’ve taken to the pitch with and the fans for everything they’ve given me during my time at the club.
“I’ve been coaching for a number of years and it’s something that I have a passion for. I started playing at twelve, I was then coaching by the age of sixteen and now is the time where I want to give back to the game and this club.
On returning to Cardiff City Ladies, Dykes said: “I’m delighted to be signing for Cardiff City Ladies. A club that has played a huge role in my development as a player and one I am excited to be returning too.
“I have many fond memories here and know what this great club is about. I can’t wait to get started with this group of players and staff and help us achieve things this season.”
[Featured image: Lewis Mitchell]
