Eniola aluko expresses her feelings as she became the first-ever women’s sport director

Aston Villa have announced the appointment of former England International, Eniola ‘Eni’ Aluko as the club’s first-ever Sporting Director for women’s football.

The 32-year-old who is the daughter of former Nigerian Senator, Gbenga Aluko, and sister to former Super Eagles striker, Sone Aluko, said, “I’m very excited to transition into a Sporting Director role. I feel it’s something that I’m ready for at this point in my career. I’ve always been passionate about the women’s game, its development and setting cultures that drive excellence. I’ll be helping to create a successful club in Aston Villa Women, and obviously I’m back home in Birmingham where it all started for me. I’m excited for this next step.”

Aluko who will oversee the club’s women’s team, retired as a player last week after spells at Birmingham City, Chelsea and Juventus. Aston Villa CEO, Christian Purslow, said, “Eni enjoyed a fabulous playing career and took her first steps in the game in this city, the city where she grew up.

She is an inspiration and inspiring role model to young girls and women in Birmingham and will help Aston Villa to be an exemplar of women’s and girl’s football in the region.”

Villa are three points clear top of the Championship and are aiming for promotion to the Women’s Super League.