BRADFORD City Women's player-manager Charlotte Stuart has decided to hang up her boots.

She has decided to concentrate solely on coaching ahead of Sunday's trip to Leicester.

Stuart has been a key player for the Bantams in recent seasons and has scored six goals in all competitions this season, either from midfield or as part of the front three.

But she believes that her decision is best for the team, despite it being a tough one to make.

“I have made this decision over the past month. It was never going to be an easy one as I’ve been playing football for over 20 years, but at this the time it feels like the best decision for the team and myself,” she said.

“I've been split between both the playing and managing roles as a player-manager, and now I can fully focus on being the manager.

“Who knows what will happen in the future, but for now I am looking forward to this challenge.”

Stuart’s first game in the dugout is a trip to the East Midlands, as City take on Leicester in the SSE Women’s FA Cup.

The Foxes are going well in the FA Women’s Premier League Northern Division, sat in second place, and have already beaten Bradford this season.

Stuart recognises their quality. She said: “Leicester are a very good side.

“They have strength all over the pitch, particularly in the attacking third, so it will be a tough game.”

However, Stuart is hoping to ensure the team are fully prepared for the clash, with her mind fully focused on being the manager.

“We are looking forward to the challenge,” she added.

“Preparing is probably slightly easier now. I have routines that I have always followed as a player so along with doing them and the management side, I had a lot to do.

“We played a friendly last night to blow out the Christmas cobwebs too, so the players have no excuses on Sunday.”