Everton Women have confirmed the departure of manager Willie Kirk.
Kirk joined the Goodison Park club in December 2018 and guided them to last year’s FA Cup final, where they lost 3-1 in extra time to Manchester City.
His two full seasons in charge produced sixth and fifth-placed finishes in the Women’s Super League before a stuttering start to the current campaign.
The 43-year-old leaves with the Blues eighth in the table after three defeats in their opening five outings, which came after a summer of high expectation.
“I am thankful to the club for the opportunity that they gave me three years ago,” said Kirk in a statement.
“During that time, we have made tremendous progress both on and off the pitch and I leave the club in a better place.
“Without a doubt, the highlight was the FA Cup final less than a year ago, a memory that will stay with me forever.
“Unfortunately, this season has not started the way we anticipated, due to a very tough opening fixture list and the re-building of a squad with eight new players.
“I have no doubt the talented squad that I leave behind can go on to have a very bright future.
“I wish the club, the staff and the players my very best wishes.”
Everton are aiming to install Kirk’s successor ahead of their next fixture, away to Leicester City in the Continental Cup on November 3.