The National Women's Football Academy has been launched at Stirling University - Scotland's University for Sporting Excellence.

The chief executive of the Scottish FA, Gordon Smith, said: "The facilities and staff at Stirling University are outstanding and will help take our young players and our national teams to the next level. The players will have access to the best possible coaching and sport science professionals.

Footballers Lisa Evans and Christie Murray will take up scholarships at the academy this autumn, thanks to the Winning Students network operated by the Scottish Further and Higher Education Funding Council (SFC).

Smith added: "Women's football is the fastest growing sport in the UK and the academy will be at the forefront of continuing this new and exciting era for our players and staff in Scotland."

Professor Grant Jarvie, deputy principal of the university, added: "Education and sport have always been attractive ways of helping people progress in life.

"In conjunction with our partners in other universities and colleges throughout Scotland, the university will help to develop a network of outlets for students in selected sports."