The football club leading the way when it comes to maternity leave

There's been a huge step forward for the rights of women in football with Italian club AC Milan announcing a groundbreaking new maternity policy.

The Italian football club has announced it will become the first club in Europe to guarantee contract renewals for players who become pregnant in the final year of their deals.

This means players will no longer have to worry about making a choice between the sport or becoming a mum, with the team also announcing it will provide help with childcare and expenses for their children and a companion.

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AC Milan captain Christy Grimshaw has told BBC Sport it's a positive step forward for female players.

"To be granted this opportunity feels extra special. You might be in the last year of your contract and feel a little scared about becoming a mother. It's taking that choice away from us. We can feel comfortable."

"Becoming a mother as a woman is a beautiful thing. I'm hoping this is the start of something special in women's football and women's sport."

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Head of women's football Elisabet Spina hopes the announcement will see other clubs follow suit.

"We want to contribute and try to change the culture," she told BBC Sport.

"It is late in a way, but we are happy to be the first that thinks of something like this and to try to change things.

The policy comes amid a push for improved rights for players across the game, with Fifa launching new standards to protect pregnant female footballers in May.

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Grimshaw is also hoping it could set a positive precedent for other clubs.

"A policy like this enables us to come back and perform [after giving birth]. I'd like to see a change in mindset," said Grimshaw.

"We can have a baby, come back and be as strong as we were before, compete in major events - and not just in women's football but every sport.

"Hopefully that can change. It's a step-by-step process. We are growing every day. But it's an exciting time for all of us."

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