Grant McCann's former Northern Ireland teammate named new Doncaster Rovers Belles manager

Toner, a former midfielder who earned two caps for the Green and White Army during a 15-year playing career, holds the UEFA Pro licence - the highest coaching qualification - and was previously Under-18s boss at Rotherham United.

Toner played for teams including Leyton Orient, Lincoln City, Grimsby Town and Rochdale after graduating from Tottenham Hotspur's youth academy.

He replaces Sam Winch and his assistant Alexandre Brito Nogueira, who were sacked last month after just ten games in charge.

Toner said: “The Belles is a historic club. What I see now is a project of bringing the Belles back to where they belong.

“As a Pro License coach, I feel now is the right time to take on an ambitious project and this was a chance I just had to jump at.”

Belles are currently ninth in the Women's National League Division One North, three points clear of the relegation zone.

They take on Rugby Borough in the first round of the FA Cup at the Iqbal Poultry Stadium tomorrow (1pm kick-off) but Toner will not take charge of the clash.

Belles strategic lead Chris Wood said: "Ciaran gave us a presentation that had real clarity on the path forwards and project ahead, along with a realistic plan to achieve this.

"Many of our viewpoints and visions aligned so I am excited as I look to the future. This is somebody that has the experience in developing players, is very innovative in his approach, is good person, and I am convinced he can take us to the next level."