Jitka Klimková returns as head coach of Football Ferns after investigation

Jitka Klimková will return to the head coach role of the Football Ferns after taking a temporary leave of absence while an investigation into an employment matter was concluded.

It meant Klimková was absent for two matches against world number seven Japan earlier this month.

Assistant coach Michael Mayne stepped in to guide the Football Ferns for the matches in Spain.

In a statement, New Zealand Football said with the investigation now concluded, Klimková would return with immediate effect.

The investigation was commissioned by New Zealand Football and carried out by an independent workplace investigator.

It said the findings of the investigation were strictly confidential to the related parties, as was standard in workplace investigations and employment matters.

The Football Ferns were now preparing for the Olympics, with the team expected to be announced shortly.