Introduction of women's team delights Mia Hamm

Hamm, the iconic American footballer who led the United States Women's National Team to victory in the World Cup in 1991 and 1999, is a member of Roma's board of directors.

And the two-time Olympic gold medallist is delighted the club will now have a women's team competing in Serie A from next season.

“I think this is great news for AS Roma and also for women’s football in Italy," Hamm said. "As a member of the club’s board of directors, I have been waiting for this day and no-one will be happier than me to see the new team kick off their first game in Roma colours.

"Over the past five years, women’s football has evolved so much in Europe and now that Italy's female league is becoming stronger, it will be great to see Roma compete with the likes of Juventus and Fiorentina in the women’s Serie A."

The team will be coached by Elisabetta Bavagnoli, while the club will play home games at Stadio Tre Fontane.

"Young boys in Rome have always dreamed of one day following in Francesco Totti’s footsteps and pulling on the Roma shirt and now young girls can share the same dream," Hamm added.

"I wish Elisabetta Bavagnoli the best of luck for the coming season.”