Arsenal are planning to open a centre of excellence in north America. Former Watford reserve team coach Gary Smith has been given the task of establishing the centre in Commerce City in Colorado state. Smith will combine the role with his job as an assist

Arsenal are planning to open a centre of excellence in north America.

Former Watford reserve team coach Gary Smith has been given the task of establishing the centre in Commerce City in Colorado state.

Smith will combine the role with his job as an assistant to head coach Fernando Clavijo at Major League Soccer outfit Colorado Rapids, who Arsenal have built a partnership with.

Smith will also develop the Arsenal Cup, a club tournament that will be open to American club teams from all over the US.

Arsenal Ladies have moved four points clear at the top of the Women's Premier League after a 5-2 home thrashing of Liverpool.

Lianne Sanderson and Julie Fleeting both netted twice while Rachel Yankey scored the other on Saturday.

Vic Akers' side travel to West Ham on Sunday in the County Cup, before hosting Doncaster in the Premier League next Thursday.

Arsenal's Under-18s chalked up their first win of 2008 last Saturday with a 5-2 victory over Southampton.

Dutch forward Nacer Barazite netted a hat-trick while Luke Freman - the new signing from Gillingham last month - scored his first two goals for his new club.