On 8 February 2026, Bolton Wanderers Women announced the arrival of four new first-team players to bolster the squad as it competes in its first season in the fifth tier of English women’s football, the North West Women’s Regional League (NWWRL) Premier Division. The club confirmed the signings on its official website.
The new arrivals are winger Molly Philpott (on dual registration from Sporting Khalsa), defender Maddie Leigh (from AFC Fylde), defender Aimee Woodward (from Wigan Athletic) and full-back Cerys Neil (on dual registration from Everton). The additions are intended to provide more options and experience as the team navigates the latter stages of the 2025/26 season.
Interim Head Coach Tom Cunniff said: “Each player comes from a strong background and brings different qualities that will strengthen the group. They’ve all settled in well and shown great attitude and commitment,” words taken from the club’s announcement.
The club’s signings include two players on dual registration — Philpott and Neil — arrangements that allow those players to play for Bolton while remaining connected to their parent clubs. Bolton Wanderers Women are a Bolton-based side but play their home matches at Victory Park in Chorley for the 2025/26 campaign, a move the club says will offer improved facilities and matchday experience.
The recruitment follows a management change confirmed by the club on 1 October 2025, when head coach Myles Smith and assistant coach Megan Campbell left their roles and Tom Cunniff was appointed Interim Head Coach.
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