FA announces new Women's Super League calendar

The Super League season currently begins in March and ends in October or November but, from 2017, the campaign will take place in line with the traditional football calendar.

In order to bridge the gap between seasons, the FA has created the WSL Spring Series cup competition, which is to be played from February to May and will see each Super League team play each other once.

These changes have been implemented to increase player welfare, further grow and develop the league and attendances, address issues around fixture congestion and planning, and provide the platform for a winning England team.

The alterations are also targeted at providing improved support to WSL teams participating in the Champions League.

FA director of football participation and development Kelly Simmons said: "When we launched the FA WSL in 2011 it was the right decision to play it as a summer league, which has been demonstrated by the competitive, exciting football, growing attendances and player development.

"However, there are still a number of issues holding the league back, such as fixture scheduling and ground availability. We want to keep building on the momentum and growth of the league and we believe now is the right time to change the calendar.

"The move is designed to bring many benefits to the women's game and we've worked closely with our clubs and other stakeholders in making this decision.

"This is a really exciting time for the women's game and we will work alongside our clubs to ensure we support them in the transition, across areas such as contracts, marketing and fixtures to make sure that it proves a big success."

Liverpool Ladies currently sit fifth in WSL 1 after stretching their unbeaten run to five games with a 2-0 win over Reading on Saturday.

Scott Rogers' side welcome Notts County to the Select Security Stadium for a 5.30pm kick-off on Saturday. To buy tickets, click here.