Shaun Goater wants Aston Villa Women’s job on permanent basis

Aston Villa interim manager Shaun Goater says he wants the job on a permanent basis and is “enjoying” leading the team.

Former Manchester City striker Goater has been in charge since Robert de Pauw was sacked just six months into his tenure on 11 December..

Goter has overseen three wins across all competitions since being in charge and is preparing the team for Saturday’s league trip to Everton.

Asked if he wanted the job permanently, Goater said: “Certainly, yes. The answer is basically yes. I’m enjoying it at the same time.

“It’s game by game, the players are excited, confident and have smiles on their faces. That’s the most important thing, to have players playing the Villa way and enjoying their football.”

Goater said he was “privileged” to have the opportunity to act as interim manager and praised the support of his coaching staff.

“I’m a people person. I try to encourage players to have the information that will help them to be the best they can,” he added.

“The role itself you can’t have without a great support team. The team are absolutely brilliant. I couldn’t compliment the support team enough.”

Goater said he was not privy to the managerial process and did not know how long his spell in charge might last.

Several senior players have contracts expiring this year and there are two weeks of the transfer window remaining but Goater is not involved in discussions relating to player retention or acquisition.

Among those with contracts due to expire are striker Rachel Daly, midfielders Jordan Nobbs and Lucy Staniforth and defender Danielle Turner.

“First of all, they are all brilliant, exciting and important players for the club,” said Goater.

“All of that stuff has really stayed with [Villa’s head of women’s football] Lee Billiard in terms of managing that and discussing those.

“I came in for the 11th hour. Higher-ups are dealing with that. I can’t really give any information but they are all exciting players and all valued.”