Former Dutch International Liesbeth Migchelsen named new Canberra coach | (Credit: Getty Images) Former Dutch International Liesbeth Migchelsen named new Canberra coach | (Credit: Getty Images)

Former Ducth international Liesbeth Migchelsen is to be named the new coach of Canberra United for Season 6 of the W-League.

Canberra United CEO Heather Reid stated her pleasure in United's acquisition of Migchelsen.

‘‘She’s a former player at international level, she knows what expected at the top level and knows how to manage female athletes.

‘‘I want to make sure Canberra United continues to show its professionalism and attract the best coaches, so it is attractive for players.’’

Migchelsen, who earned 95 caps for the Netherlands, takes over after club favourite and championship winning coach Jitka Klimkova resigned her post to take on the New Zealand U17 Head Coach position.

A qualified UEFA A-Licence holder, she becomes Canberra's fourth coach and second female in charge.

‘‘We want to continue to highlight the fact that coaching isn’t just a man’s job,’’ stated Reid to The Canberra Times.

“Elisabeth comes highly recommended and has excellent credentials and we are sure she will prove to be the right choice to carry on all the good work implemented by Jitka Klimkova during her two seasons with the club.”

The 42 year old former Dutch U 19s Assistant Coach also beat out three local coaches.

Migchelsen is also pleased with the appointment and is looking forward to meeting the squad in mid September.

“I look forward to this fantastic challenge with players who are well known by their level of play and endless will to become even better football players,” she said.

“My goal is to contribute to the development of the game and particularly to Canberra United. As there will be no time to lose during the short pre-season, I am delighted that Jitka Klimkova is willing to hand over the team in the first week of my appointment. I cannot wait to start."