Manchester United Women v Liverpool Women match programme, WSL, 15.01.23

AHEAD OF HIS FIRST COMPETITIVE FIXTURE AGAINST

LIVERPOOL AS UNITED

BOSS, MARC INSISTS THAT HE AND HIS REDS COULDN’T BE ANY BETTER PREPARED TO KICK OFF 2023 WITH A WIN AGAINST OUR RIVALS

Hello and happy new year! It’s wonderful to see you again as we kick off 2023 against Liverpool, and we look to continue where we left off last year.

Throughout the first part of the season we’ve really appreciated your love and support. Hopefully you can see this special team developing and growing in front of your eyes. These next few months are all about getting results and we’ll need you again. Anything we achieve, we achieve together.

We’ve just returned from a brilliant trip to Malta where we were lucky enough to meet lots of fans there too. The trip was really beneficial, both in terms of training but also getting the group back together at the same time – and a bit of sunshine, too! It allowed us to get straight back on track as a group, for lots of players to get some minutes under their belt, and there were some firsts, some debuts, and a comeback from injury, too. Aoife Mannion getting back on the pitch after her ACL injury was fantastic and, as she said herself, she “could be a footballer again”. We will still have to be careful in our management of Aoife’s game-time as she continues her recovery, but it’s brilliant to have her back as part of the group again. After the game, the girls had a toast and got her a little cake to say welcome back. Everybody is so pleased and that’s how special this group is, how close they are.

Today we welcome Matt Beard and his Liverpool side to Leigh. We haven’t played them in a competitive fixture in my time here, but we know it will be a great test against them. We played them in

pre-season; it was a tough game and they had some good chances, in the first half in particular. They have some key threats. We know about the effectiveness of their long throw, their ability to counterattack quickly, and how they look to block spaces to make you have to beat them.

We will be getting straight back to our way of playing though – not giving anything to any of our opponents easily, and focusing on what we do well.

Now is a time to hold ourselves accountable so we can achieve our goals. That’s on the pitch, and around matches, but also every day in training. What can we all be doing individually that will benefit the team? We are prepared and ready to face the challenges of the next 13 Women’s Super League matches, as well as the Women’s FA Cup. We go into these games with no fear, in a good place physically and mentally, and with real belief.

So bring your energy today and in the future. Let’s bring that energy together, and let’s see what we can achieve together in 2023. Enjoy the game.

INSIDE STORIES

RECHARGED AND READY

Back from winter training, Skinner’s Reds are raring to go against Liverpool

It’s felt like a long wait for Marc Skinner’s Reds to return to action – to be precise, it’s been exactly four weeks since we beat Sheffield United here at Leigh Sports Village – but that’s got nothing on the wait we’ve had to lock horns once more with our fierce club rivals from down the M62.

It was October 2020 when the Reds of Manchester and Liverpool last met, in a behind-closed-doors group-stage fixture in the Conti Cup,

which the Merseysiders won 3-1. Two years and three months later, it remains only the third-ever meeting in all competitions between the teams, on account of the sides only once being in the same division prior to the current campaign – and even then we only met once, due to the 2019/20 season ending prematurely on account of the Covid pandemic.

So compared to our regular encounters with our other big rivals Manchester City (11) – and let’s not

Liverpool’s promotion has reignited the rivalry

forget Everton (12) – we’ve seen very little of Liverpool since Lizzie Arnot placed herself into United folklore by scoring the only goal at Prenton Park in United Women’s first-ever fixture since reforming as a professional side, away to the Merseysiders in the Conti Cup in August 2018.

United fans made up a good chunk of the 829 crowd for that historic game (although curiously, at least double that number must have since told us they were there!), with a far healthier crowd of 2,813 at LSV for that one previous league meeting – a 2-0 United win in September 2019 courtesy of goals from Lauren James and Katie Zelem.

Considering the wait since then, it’ll be no surprise to hear that

Captain Zel was on target from the penalty spot when the teams last met here in September 2019

WHEN IT COMES TO ANY UNITED v LIVERPOOL GAME

STANIFORTH MOVES ON TO ASTON VILLA

Leah gets stuck in back in 2018

meeting no.4 today is certain to smash that attendance figure, with all four ends of LSV open to fans, as happened for the November visit of Chelsea, while the presence of a few more away supporters this afternoon should make for a lively atmosphere.

For Skinner’s Reds, they’ll be feeling recharged following a week-long winter training camp in Malta, which you can read more about on p11. And with United heading into today’s game in third place in the WSL, behind Chelsea and Arsenal, and ahead of Manchester City, nothing less than three points will be the aim against Matt Beard’s side.

Indeed, the top two face off at the Emirates at 12pm today, and should Chelsea and United both win, we’ll end

AVERAGE FOOTBALL RIVALRY

the day in second place. As for City, they begin 2023 three points behind us, with an away trip to fifth-placed West Ham first up for them at 6.45pm.

United will start today’s game as favourites against our ninth-placed visitors, but will be taking nothing for granted against a side that has beaten Chelsea in the WSL this season, as well as heading into the Christmas break on the back of an unbeaten run of two draws and a win in the WSL. And as we all know when it comes to any Manchester United v Liverpool game – whether at men’s, women’s or even youth level, dating back to a ‘test match’ fixture at Blackburn’s Ewood Park in 1894 – it’s not your average football rivalry. Come, on United!

BLACK CATS ARE UP IN CUP

Our opponents in the fourth round of the Women’s FA Cup were confirmed last Sunday, as second-tier side Sunderland beat Blackburn 1-0 in the third round to set up a tie with the Reds. Our trip to Sunderland’s Eppleton Colliery Welfare Ground, situated in Hettonle-Hole (postcode DH5 9NA), will take place on Sunday 29 January

at 1pm. The stadium (below) holds 2,500 – check tickets.manutd.com for details on attending this game.

Lucy Staniforth joined fellow WSL side Aston Villa on a permanent transfer earlier this week, after two-and-a-half years at United. The 30-year-old made her competitive debut for the Reds in our home win against Brighton in October 2020, scoring her first goal in the FA Cup away win at Burnley later that season. York-born Lucy, capped 17 times by England, went on to make 41 appearances in all competitions as a Red, scoring three goals, including a memorable equaliser in the 2-2 home draw with Manchester City last season as she cleverly flicked in Ella Toone’s cross. While injuries limited her involvement at times, Lucy featured in seven of our first 13 games this season. Everyone at the club would like to thank Lucy for her service and wish her the very best of luck for the future.

Lucy has signed an 18-month deal with the Villans

– WHETHER MEN’S, WOMEN’S OR EVEN YOUTH LEVEL –WE ALL KNOW IT’S NOT YOUR

LAST TIME OUT

0 BIRKIRKARA

10 UNITED

Russo (2), Boe Risa (2), Garcia, Clinton, Moore, Parris, Williams, Thomas

Marc Skinner’s Reds began the new year with a trip to Malta, where they participated in a week-long winter training camp under blue skies, before taking on Maltese top-flight champions Birkirkara in a mid-season friendly.

Building on our successful start to the season, the trip was viewed as a good opportunity to further enhance the side’s team spirit ahead of a busy second half of 2022/23, while enjoying some down-time to take in some of the island’s rich culture.

The game itself, which came towards the end of the trip, had much interest from the locals, with 1,053 in attendance – a record number for a women’s game in Malta. The Maltese branch of the United’s supporters’ club (founded in 1959, it’s the club’s oldest branch) showed a particular interest.

midfielder Grace Clinton also got a start, and scored her first senior goal as the Reds raced into a 6-0 lead at the break. The 19-year-old wasn’t the youngest starter for the Reds, however, with 17-year-old Jess Simpson gaining some valuable senior experience as she impressed at full-back.

A much-changed XI took to the field for the second half, with Hayley Ladd taking the armband from Katie Zelem, as United netted four more – including a cracking long-distance strike from Jade Moore, which followed a similar first-half screamer from Lucia Garcia – to reach double figures in ruthless fashion, helping to sharpen the team’s attacking threat and fitness levels ahead of today’s big WSL restart.

RECAP OF THE REDS’ MOST RECENT FIXTURES

As the scoreline suggests, the Reds – wearing green – dominated the play, with eight different goalscorers on the scoresheet without reply, including doubles for Alessia Russo and Vilde Boe Risa. Just as pleasing, however, was the sight of Aoife Mannion in the starting XI, with the defender back in action for the first time after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury last spring. Teenage

UNITED LINE-UP

Fri 6 Jan, Hibernians Stadium, friendly

FIRST HALF: Earps; Batlle, Mannion, Le Tissier, Simpson; Clinton, Zelem (c), Boe Risa, Garcia, Russo, Leon

SECOND HALF: Baggaley; Batlle, Turner, Tounkara, Blundell; Moore, Ladd (c), Toone; Parris, Williams, Thomas Attendance: 1,053

The goals kept coming after the break

It was great to see Aoife among our starting XI

0 SHEFFIELD UNITED

Despite being unable to progress in the Continental Tyres League Cup, the Reds were determined to see 2022 out on a high, and that is exactly what Marc Skinner’s side did against Sheffield United.

It would take just 12 minutes for us to take the lead, with Adriana Leon on target to open the score. A corner whipped into the area fell to Aissatou Tounkara, who fizzed the ball into the direction of Leon, with the Canadian showing great instinct to backheel the ball beyond Bethan Davies between the sticks.

Up against a deep block, breaking down the Sheffield United defence came as no easy task, but our patience would pay off just before half-time, with Leon on target again. It was a wonderfully worked goal as defence was turned into attack, and was kickstarted by hard work in the middle of the park from the Canadian. Rachel Williams drove forward with the ball before slipping a pass into the path of Lucia Garcia, who delivered it across the box for Leon to tap in.

The second 45 unfolded in a similar fashion. United continued to dominate, and soon had a third. Martha Thomas’s low cross, into the path of the oncoming Garcia, was turned into her own net by Ellie Wilson.

An assured performance from the Reds saw Thomas secure the three points on the hour mark, after being found by Williams – who was instrumental going forward – and hitting an inch-perfect strike.

Two young Reds, Keira Barry and Alyssa Aherne, were introduced as we saw the game – and year – out in comfortable fashion in front of a crowd of 1,273.

LINE-UPS

UNITED

Subs

Leon is congratulated after scoring her – and United’s – second goal

Sun 18 Dec, Leigh Sports Village, Continental Tyres League Cup

The three Ts – Tounkara, Turner and Thomas – push forward

Substitute Barry enjoys the moment at full-time with Safia Middleton-Patel

: Baggaley; Batlle (Blundell 45), Tounkara, Turner (Le Tissier 45), Thorisdottir; Staniforth, Boe Risa; Thomas (Zelem 64), Leon (Barry 64), Garcia; Williams (Aherne 80)

Subs not used: Middleton-Patel, Mannion, Ladd, Galton Booked: Aherne

SHEFFIELD UNITED: Davies; Wilson (Dior Muir 78), Barker (Lord-Mears 45), Newsham, Hartley; Sweetman-Kirk, Brown, Enderby (Docherty), Paul (Riglar 65), Walters; Rayner (Wilcock 64)

not used: Wilson, Riglar, Francis-Jones, Miller, Graham Booked: Brown

Referee: Thomas Kirk Attendance: 1,273

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A comprehensive, science-based program to help deliver a cleaner and safer stadium and training grounds for their fans, visitors, players and staff.

Learn more about how Manchester United achieved the seal at cleanmatters.ecolab.com

BRING ON 2023!

AS A NEW YEAR BEGINS, HERE ARE JUST FIVE REASONS TO BE EXCITED ABOUT WHAT LIES AHEAD IN THE WOMEN’S GAME...

1Start of Women’s FA Cup

Exactly two weeks today, the FA Cup gets under way for the 12 WSL clubs, which for United sees new opponents in the fourth round, in the shape of second-tier Sunderland It’ll be the Reds’ fifth crack at the Cup, with our first attempt being our best yet, when only an agonising extra-time loss to Reading denied us a semi-final spot. Since then, we’ve exited in the fourth (2019/20) and fifth rounds (2020/21; 2021/22) – compared to the three semis we’ve reached in the Conti Cup, it’s a record that needs improving.

Regardless of what happens in the WSL in the months ahead, to reach a major final for the first time (imagine how many we’d bring to Wembley!) would be brilliant, wouldn’t it?

As for winning a major trophy, that has to be one of the next steps in the Reds’ evolution.

2Transfer windows

As you’ve probably noticed, the first WSL transfer window of 2023 opened on New Year’s Day, with it closing on 31 January at 5pm (or midnight for international deals). It can be a tricky window, especially for teams doing well – go in big, in the hope of raising the bar even higher, or not risk upsetting the balance of the squad in pursuit of success? With loan moves and late deals common this month it’ll be fascinating to see how Marc Skinner assesses things in preparation for the rest of 2022/23, while across the WSL the early movers included

Could the trip to Sunderland be the start of a long Cup journey?

Jordan Nobbs (Arsenal to Aston Villa), Bethany England (Chelsea to Tottenham) and Lucy Staniforth (United to Villa).

Locals rivals to finish WSL

It’s been a highly encouraging start to 2022/23 in the WSL (with 22 points, we’re seven points and two positions better off than we were after nine games last season), but for all the excitement about what could be possible in the league in the months ahead, it is worth remembering that United won’t have even reached the halfway point until after next Sunday’s trip to Reading. As with last season, there’s been much talk about whether we can finally secure a Champions League spot (via a top-three finish), but Marc Skinner is right not to get drawn into that, constantly reminding his Reds to stick to the old adage of ‘one game at a time’, while refusing to place a limit on what United can achieve. Such an outlook makes perfect sense with 13 WSL fixtures still to play, including meetings with all of the ‘big three’ – two of which are at home, against Arsenal in April, and City in May. That derby is set to be our final home outing of the season, before we visit today’s visitors Liverpool on the last day. Here’s hoping far more than simply ‘local bragging rights’ are up for grabs, with the stakes high and the stands packed for both games.

More big-stadium fixtures

Women’s World Cup

How’s this for a figure: 38,353. That’s the average figure across our last three WSL games, which has taken us from the Emirates to the Etihad via Old Trafford. And with Leicester’s King Power Stadium already ticked off this season, Reading’s Madejski Stadium next up, and Spurs’s impressive Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on the horizon next month (with a large crowd expected), United Women’s players and supporters alike are becoming very accustomed to such big-stadium fixtures. You fans are central to this, with busy stands really helping to further promote the WSL and bring extra money into the women’s game, which can only be a good thing. And at what vast arenas will the Reds line up later in the season? We’ll see...

More packed away ends at WSL games? Yes, please!

Talking of the overall development of the women’s game, there’s the small matter of the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, from 20 July until 20 August. On the back of England’s Euros success there are sure to be millions watching from our part of the world, with England and the Republic of Ireland among those involved in the 32-nation tournament. Along with holders USA, England will be among the favourites to win it for the first time, and hopefully a few Reds will be involved when they kick off their campaign in Brisbane on 22 July (China and Denmark are in England’s group, with the fourth team confirmed next month). Such is the time difference, mid-morning kick-offs for those watching here on TV will become the norm, so you might want to check your work schedule! As for those off to see it live, what an experience it’ll be...

We’ll next face City in the league in late May – and it could be quite the occasion

UNITED TO DELIVER EXCELLENCE

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KATIE ZELEM

BACK FROM A REWARDING TEAM TRIP TO MALTA, THE SKIPPER IS FEELING FOCUSED, AND HERE SHE SHARES HER AMBITIONS FOR THE MONTHS AHEAD

I hope you all had a lovely Christmas and new year. We had a bit of a change of scenery at the beginning of 2023, training and playing in Malta. Having sun to start the year was great! It wasn’t all about the training though; we got to enjoy a few days off too. We went on a sightseeing boat trip, to the Blue Lagoon, and out for lunch a few times. It was a nice bonding experience with the girls, which was really important.

The match against Birkirkara [pictured] was valuable too; every game is an opportunity to learn. We had lots of different scorers and everyone getting 45 minutes in before the season restarts was a big bonus. We’ve got real strength in depth in our squad now, which will be huge for us going into the second half of the season, and with Aoife we have more options at centre-half; she’s been a top performer for us in the past so it’s a great boost to have her back.

I got the opportunity to switch off from football a bit over Christmas too, visiting New York for the first time. I was able to see some friends out there and do some sightseeing – I’m a real tourist so my camera roll is full of every building in the city! It was good to

get away and spend time with my family and friends in England too after a busy few months with football.

The break is also a time of reflection and looking ahead. I have some personal ambitions for 2023: I want to make the England World Cup squad and make an impact on the international front. For United, I’ve been pleased with my form personally so I’m determined to carry on developing individually, while as a team it’s important we maintain the standards we’ve set so far. We’re not setting our sights on third; we can finish as high as we want to be and with your incredible support, we believe we can.

The girls and I are raring to go. We had a really strong first half of the season and we want to build on that, to keep pushing each other. That’s what’s so special about United, we really are one big team.

Liverpool will be a tough game today. They are very organised and have some really good players. They have beaten Chelsea this season and we won’t be underestimating them. A United v Liverpool game always adds a bit more fire to the game too. We’re looking forward to seeing and hearing you as loud as ever as we kick off 2023.

TWELVE MONTHS TO BE PROUD OF

The positive work of Manchester United Foundation continued to be strongly felt by its participants in 2022, with the involvement of players and staff, both past and present, helping to underline the incredible impact of the club’s associated charity.

The Foundation celebrated its 15th anniversary in March 2022, and some of its very first participants back in 2007 have since progressed into roles working for the organisation. One such individual, Joab Westwood, is now a head coach for the Street Reds programme, which offers free evening football

sessions and alternative activities for young people aged 8-18, with the opportunity to learn new skills and gain qualifications in a supportive and positive environment. In 2022, Joab was crowned as United’s Premier League Kicks ‘Local Legend’, and he received words of congratulations from former Red, Rio Ferdinand, in recognition of his work.

Above (clockwise from top left): Street Reds coach Joab with the Foundation’s John Shiels; Legends of the North fixtures raised vital funds; Primary schoolkids got to meet their heroes at Carrington

Joab said: “It is amazing to be recognised, because when I come here every week, I don’t see this as a job – I do my job in the daytime, and then I come here to enjoy myself and have a good time and see the young people have fun.”

Rio added: “Legends aren’t just created in stadiums. The coaches, mentors, volunteers and participants who have fulfilled their potential thanks to these weekly sessions all deserve to be called legends.”

At the end of last season, St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School in Stockport experienced the beyond-the-classroom benefits of its

We reflect on another year packed with so many memorable moments for United’s associated charity, as it celebrated its 15th anniversary...

Left: Jaap Stam’s trip to Eccles

Sixth Form College; Above and below: last month’s Old Trafford sleepout; Bottom: the partnership launch with DXC Technology saw lucky pupils become mascots

DEDICATION MEANS WE CAN CONTINUE OUR WORK SUPPORTING THE MOST VULNERABLE IN SOCIETY”

– CEO JOHN SHIELS ON

Foundation partnership with an unforgettable visit to Carrington, where pupils met United’s first-team squad. Jordanna Roberts, the Foundation’s primary schools manager, spoke about the value of these incredible experiences. “The whole first team came up and met all of the children, and they were absolutely beside themselves,” she enthused. “They’ll remember that for the rest of their lives. A lot of them don’t leave the areas that they live in, so to be able to see somebody they idolise on the telly is just amazing.”

The Foundation also delivers a BTEC Sport programme alongside Eccles Sixth Form College as part of its education provision, and in May those students had an afternoon to remember with a coaching session from ex-United defender Jaap Stam.

Students gained a special insight from Jaap, learning about his esteemed career, ahead of his return to the Theatre of Dreams as the Foundation’s Legends of the North series began, with a double-header of matches between United and Liverpool legends. “An absolutely amazing experience – the advice

THE SLEEPOUT

he’s given us is once-in-a-lifetime,” said student Ellis of the session.

Soon after, Jaap and a host of other former Reds – including Antonio Valencia, Patrice Evra and Dimitar Berbatov – graced the hallowed turf in M16 in May, and later in the return leg at Anfield in September, with the monies raised going to support the work of both clubs’ Foundations.

With the start of the 2022/23 season came further life-changing moments for the Foundation’s young people, particularly following the partnership launch with DXC Technology, which saw partner secondary pupils take on a series of digital workshops. High-performing students were rewarded by being invited back to Old Trafford to be mascots for the home win against Tottenham in October.

Young people are at the heart of the Foundation’s work, which was brought into focus with the Old Trafford sleepout in December –a fundraising event in aid of both the Foundation and Centrepoint, a charity that supports homeless young people. It saw 60 people bed down in the Munich Tunnel, standing in solidarity with young people facing hardship this winter.

On the night of the sleepout, Foundation chief executive John Shiels said: “I am truly grateful to everyone that is here with us tonight braving the freezing temperatures. Their dedication means we can continue our work in supporting the most vulnerable in society and helping them to make positive choices in their lives.”

Throughout the 2021/22 season, the Foundation positively impacted the lives of 20,343 young people across Greater Manchester and beyond. This effort is set to continue in 2023, so be sure to follow the Foundation on social media to keep up to date with its work.

Visit mufoundation.org for more

Jaap Stam’s trip to Eccles Sixth Form College made for an unforgettable day for all involved

“THEIR

MARY EARPS

Born: 7 March 1993 Nationality: English United apps/goals: 78/0

ONA BATLLE

Born: 10 June 1999 Nationality: Spanish United apps/goals: 59/3

AOIFE MANNION

Born: 24 September 1995 Nationality: English United apps/goals: 19/0

MAYA

LE TISSIER

Born: 18 April 2002 National team: England United apps/goals: 13/2

MILLIE TURNER

Born: 7 July 1996 Nationality: English United apps/goals: 95/6

SOPHIE BAGGALEY

Born: 29 November 1996 Nationality: English United apps/goals: 10/0

MARIA THORISDOTTIR

Born: 5 June 1993 Nationality: Norwegian United apps/goals: 43/1

HANNAH BLUNDELL

Born: 25 May 1994 Nationality: English United apps/goals: 41/1

AISSATOU TOUNKARA

Born: 16 March 1995 Nationality: French United apps/goals: 5/0

JADE MOORE

Born: 22 October 1990 Nationality: English United apps/goals: 9/2

VILDE BOE RISA

Born: 13 July 1995

Nationality: Norwegian United apps/goals: 35/4

HAYLEY LADD

Born: 6 October 1993 National team: Wales United apps/goals: 71/6

ELLA TOONE

Born: 2 September 1999 Nationality: English United apps/goals: 114/44

LEAH GALTON

Born: 24 May 1994 Nationality: English United apps/goals: 94/26

ADRIANA

LEON

Born: 2 October 1992

Nationality: Canadian United apps/goals: 7/3

ALESSIA RUSSO

Born: 8 February 1999

Nationality: English United apps/goals: 42/18

KATIE ZELEM

Born: 20 January 1996

Nationality: English United apps/goals: 112/29

GRACE CLINTON

Born: 31 March 2003

Nationality: English United apps/goals: 0/0

MARTHA THOMAS

Born: 31 May 1996 National team: Scotland United apps/goals: 37/7

LUCIA GARCIA

Born: 14 July 1998 Nationality: Spanish United apps/goals: 11/1

NIKITA PARRIS

Born: 10 March 1994

Nationality: English United apps/goals: 11/3

RACHEL WILLIAMS

Born: 10 January 1988

Nationality: English United apps/goals: 7/2

BATLLE #2 ONA

ALSO UP FOR DISCUSSION: UNITED VERSUS LIVERPOOL, EL CLASICO , WEARING THE ARMBAND AND DANI ALVES...

How was the recent week away in Malta for you, Ona? Good! The sun, spending time with the girls... it was really good. It was great to catch up with everyone, to work hard in different weather, and to get back into the routine.

There has been a lot of emphasis on the togetherness of the squad. Do you feel this trip has brought you all even closer together going into the second half of the season? Yes, 100 per cent. I feel like we have a really special team, we are very connected. These kinds of trips make us even closer, which is nice to have, and it’s nice to sometimes do something different like this also.

What was it like getting such a warm welcome from United’s oldest supporters’ club out in Malta?

The welcome was so nice. We felt the support, we felt the love. To be honest, I didn’t know about it [the supporters club] so it was so nice to learn, to be around them, to enjoy the country, the fans, and everything that we did there.

You were the only player to start both halves in the friendly against Birkirkara out there. That must have been strange, having 10 new players around you! Yes it was, but it was good to get those minutes. Even if you have 10 different players around you, everyone in this squad is ready to play and give 100 per cent to make sure we do what we have to do. We all want to attack, to score, to win. It was nice to have minutes with everyone.

And what did you make of Malta away from the football – it looks like you all got a bit of time to explore it... The people were so nice. We went to the beach, we went to the Blue Lagoon, which was amazing. It was one of the best trips I’ve ever had by boat. And, of course, spending time with the girls – it was even more special. And of course the weather! I was so pleased to have that weather in January, as we don’t usually have it!

→

THE FULL-BACK HAS BEEN IN THE FORM OF HER CAREER, AND AS SHE TELLS US OVER A TUESDAY-MORNING CHAT, “THIS SEASON HAS BEEN THE ONE I’M ENJOYING MOST.”

Interview: Courtney Hill

Part of the reason we were in Malta was to kick-start preparations ahead of this Liverpool game. How much are you looking forward to this one? It’s nice to have a little rest, to then come back and be refreshed. But we’ve been thinking about the second half of the season during this break. We really want to keep doing what we did in the first half, but we think we can always do better so we are really looking forward to this first game back, because it is the first step to going into the second half of the season.

You’ve faced City a few times now, but this will be your first proper game for us against Liverpool. What are you expecting from this fixture? We’re expecting that it is going to be, as always, a really difficult game but we know what we have to do and we just want to make sure we compete as a team and give 100 per cent –everything will follow if we do that.

We can be sure the fans will be right behind you, with all four stands open at LSV. And it’s great to see more proper ‘away ends’ at some women’s games, wouldn’t you agree?

FACTFILE

FULL NAME

Ona Batlle Pascual

DATE OF BIRTH 10 June 1999

PLACE OF BIRTH

Vilassar de Mar, Catalonia

POSITION Full-back

YOUTH CAREER Barcelona

SENIOR CAREER

2017-18 Madrid CFF 28 games, 0 goals

2018-20 Levante 42 games, 3 goals

2020- Manchester United 59 games, 3 goals

INTERNATIONAL CAREER

Spain: 28 caps/0 goals

Below: winning the U19 Euros in Belfast in 2017

a football game. Everything is growing and I’m really pleased to be able to live this growth from the inside.

Where do the recent away fixtures at the Emirates and the Etihad rank in terms of games you’ve enjoyed being a part of in your career?

I think those, as well as Old Trafford, are some of the most important. What we did at the Emirates was really good, and to be able to live those moments... they are moments we always want to experience as footballers. That is what is the most beautiful part of football. If we are able to live that more, every year is going to be even more special.

Did you know much of the United v Liverpool rivalry when you were growing up in Catalonia – and how for many fans it means more to them than their respective city derbies?

I know the history of the clubs, so I know there is always rivalry between them. It’s nice to be part of this history, to be part of Manchester United.

I really like our fans. I just feel like they are always cheering, making noise and we really feel their support. I think that is a really big element for us and it gives us more energy to bring to them. I think it’s great to see away ends, it should be normal and it makes it more beautiful to experience

You grew up in a time and place when Barcelona and Real Madrid were really at the forefront of the sport. What was it like to be surrounded by a rivalry that had your homeland, and millions worldwide, gripped?

It’s always nice to live those kind of rivalries, there is always something special about it. I didn’t get to live it [Barcelona v Real Madrid] as a footballer but I could tell the games were always special.

You spent part of your youth career at Barça – knowing that rivalry, was it a weird feeling to then join a Madrid club in 2017? At least it was Madrid CFF and not Real! Yes, it wasn’t Real Madrid so I didn’t feel like I played for a rival! But every club I’ve been at I feel like I’ve grown a lot and I’m really happy I took that step because that is one part of my life that made me as I am now.

Who was your football hero growing up? A full-back?

Dani Alves. I think he’s one of the better full-backs in the history of football so I always looked up to him.

Boss Skinner has much faith in the Spanish defender

Batlle doesn’t score many, but when she does... we remember them! – including a superb strike from a tight angle in our last Old Trafford outing

AWAY ENDS AT WOMEN’S GAMES

THINK IT’S

You’re still only 23 – what moment do you look back on as being key in your own development as a player? Since Covid-19 happened, my life changed. I think it was at the beginning of being in Manchester when I thought that I really wanted to work hard as possible to be the best player that I could be. So now my mindset is to just work every day to be the best player I can be, and that is when I started to feel more professional.

If you could tell your younger self anything, what would it be?

Believe in what you want to be. And the most important thing: enjoy it. Enjoy the process, because sometimes we are not thinking about the process, we are just thinking about the future. Also, work as much as possible. With hard work and belief, anything can be possible.

Back to Spanish football, we’ve seen the Clasico shift into the women’s game since Real Madrid entered the scene. Did you get to watch their games in the Champions League last season, in front of those huge crowds [including 91,553 at the Nou Camp]? Yeah! I always try to watch football, I like to watch football.

It’s always special to watch the Champions League. They were good games, they are always special. Real Madrid is growing and they are doing well.

It would be great for us to replicate that atmosphere with a completely full Old Trafford, wouldn’t it... I would really love to have Old Trafford full with all the fans. I’d love to experience that. We can do it! It would be really good. Manchester United fans are special, I’ve been to the men’s games at Old Trafford and it was really, really good and that would be amazing to live.

Talking of packed stadiums, last summer’s Euros must have been bittersweet for you, with you playing so well, but England knocking Spain out. How proud were you of your United team-mates who lifted the trophy? I’m always happy for my mates. It was nice for them to shine, I’m always going to be happy for them. They are doing really good and I think they deserved it.

That’s a real testament to the squad’s unity. What do you think makes United different to any team you’ve played for previously?

“I

GREAT TO SEE

– IT SHOULD BE NORMAL AND IT MAKES IT MORE BEAUTIFUL TO EXPERIENCE A FOOTBALL GAME”

Opening doors to confidence

Football provides skills that last a lifetime. That’s why the Barclays Community Football Fund is giving grants to community sports groups who need it most. Find out more at home.barclays/footballfund

Community Football Fund

Barclays Bank UK PLC is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register number: 759676). Registered in England. Registered no. 9740322. Registered office: 1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP.

That togetherness – I just feel like it’s a big family, which I love. And the fans. They are really loud and supportive.

What are your hopes for the rest of the season? It would be great to go far in the FA Cup wouldn’t it? Of course. We want to win every single game. We want to compete for trophies, for the FA Cup, for the league. We want to be one of the best teams in England.

You’re well into your third year with United. Do you have a particular highlight from your time here so far? Perhaps scoring at Old Trafford last year is up there… It was one of the most recent highlights, and one of the best moments – it was special to play at Old Trafford, and to score and be around our fans.

We’ve also seen you with the armband on a couple of occasions this season. Can you describe the feeling of leading your team-mates out as their captain? It is always a pleasure to be captain for this big club. I think I just try to do what I did before, nothing special. Just be a competitive person, and give that to my team-mates.

You were named Player of the Year in your first season, and last season became the first-ever United player named in the PFA Team of the Year. How much pride do you take in receiving such personal accolades?

For me, the last two years I’ve been growing. When I came to United, I was a totally different person and footballer than I am now. I’m really happy to have those awards, but this season has been the one I’m enjoying the most.

You’ve also been up for two Barclays WSL Player of the Month awards this month alongside Leah Galton... I think it means that we as a team are doing a good job, but at the same time we still need to keep improving. It’s just about improving and being better every day. I’m very happy and very proud of Leah as well, she has been one of our best players and I’m very happy that she is there.

What do you like to do to switch off from football? Or are you one of those who never stops thinking about it? Yes, I feel like I have to force myself sometimes to stop thinking about football! I like to study and be with my friends, and just try to spend time with those around me. ●

“THE

Working hard with Millie T on the training ground in Malta last week

LIVERPOOL

Back in the top tier following a two-year absence, re-establishing themselves in the WSL was always going to be the priority this season for Liverpool, who won the league in 2013 and 2014 but have since drifted down the standings, resulting in relegation following the Covid-curtailed campaign of 2019/20.

Having eased to the Championship title last season under coach Matt Beard, they made quite the start upon their WSL return, beating champions Chelsea 2-1 on the opening day – although it did see last season’s top scorer Leanne Kiernan sustain an ankle injury that has kept her out ever since. As a result, American forward Katie Stengel – who scored both goals from the penalty spot that day – has had added responsibility to carry the goal burden, especially with Shanice van de Sanden also out injured – and while Stengel’s scored seven in 13 games in all competitions this term, they’ve struggled for goals elsewhere in the WSL, with five other players on just

a single goal heading into Christmas. Liverpool’s final league game of 2022 – a 2-0 home win against West Ham – would have been savoured by Beard, with it ending a seven-game winless run in the WSL, and with it coming on the back of two 3-3 draws away from home the boss will be hoping it sparks his team into life in 2023, with Chelsea away next up following today’s short trip to Leigh.

Away from the league, Liverpool are through to the Conti Cup quarters (having edged out United as the best runners-up in the group stage), while in the FA Cup they have another tricky away trip to Chelsea on the horizon.

The big news over the break was the return of defender Gemma Bonner, who captained Liverpool to their two WSL titles. The 31-year-old arrived from Racing Louisville on Christmas Eve, reuniting her with Beard. In midfield, on loan Charlotte Wardlaw has returned to parent club Chelsea, while 20-year-old Denmark youth international Sofie Lundgaard arrived from Fortuna Hjorring on Tuesday.

It was late November when Liverpool last played away from home in the WSL – a thrilling 3-3 draw at Reading, which came days after an identical result away to Brighton

THE REDS OF MERSEYSIDE WERE MUCH IMPROVED IN THE FINAL WEEKS OF 2022, SETTING THEM UP WELL FOR A CHALLENGING JANUARY ON THE ROAD

MANAGER CAPTAIN MATT BEARD NIAMH FAHEY KATIE STENGEL

The WSL’s very own Coach Beard (just for you, Ted Lasso fans), Matt returned to Liverpool in May 2021, six years on from his successful first stint from 2012-15. Prior to that, the Londoner, 45, had managed Millwall and Chelsea, while between his two Liverpool roles he’s bossed NWSL side Boston Breakers, as well as West Ham (2018-20) and Bristol City on an interim basis in 2021.

The experienced Galway-born defender turns 36 this year, but she’s showing no signs of slowing down, having won her 100th cap for Ireland last February and having started all nine WSL games for her club so far in 2022/23. Always composed on the ball, the lifelong Liverpool fan is now in her fifth season with the club, after arriving from Bordeaux in the summer of 2018.

The Florida-born forward previously played for Beard at Boston Breakers, with the pair reunited in Merseyside 12 months ago, on the back of Stengel’s spell in Norway with Valerenga. Having spent her career in the US, Australia and Germany, it was a first taste of English football for the 30-year-old, but she’s looked a shrewd addition since stepping up her involvement this season.

BEARD

The three previous competitive meetings between the teams – a 1-0 United win in August 2018 (Conti Cup); a 2-0 United win in September 2019 (WSL); and a 1-3 defeat to Liverpool in October 2020 (Conti Cup) – have been covered elsewhere in this programme, but did you know that before being our first-ever competitive opponents, Liverpool were our first friendly opponents?

On 15 July 2018 – barely a week after our 21-player squad had been announced – was a behind-closed-doors friendly against our local rivals. Unfortunately the game made headlines for worrying reasons, after United goalkeeper Siobhan Chamberlain (above) was taken to hospital with a suspected serious neck injury. The game was abandoned, and fortunately further investigations at hospital confirmed there was no serious injury, with Siobhan back in the gloves by the time of Lizzie Arnot’s famous winner at Prenton Park just over a month later.

“I’VE GOT EVERY FAITH AND CONFIDENCE IN THE GROUP – WE’RE GETTING THAT CONFIDENCE BACK UP AT THIS LEVEL” – MATT

THE QUIZ

Three rounds of questions –we wish you the best of luck!

BEGINNER

1. Who are our next opponents after today’s game?

2. True or false: United will join the Women's FA Cup at the fourth-round stage later this month? →

FIVE-STAR SHOWING

United remain top of the Championship after goals from Mollie Green (2), Lauren James, Millie Turner and Ella Toone ensured a third consecutive victory, on a sunny afternoon at The Hive Stadium against London Bees.

The Reds, donning their pink away kit, started the brighter of the two teams. Kirsty Smith marauded her way into the penalty box and found Green, whose looping effort at goal just missed the target. But soon afterwards, United took the lead. James delivered a delightful low cross into the box from the left and Green was on hand to poke it home.

James was tormenting the Bees’ defence and just before the half-hour mark she scored the second, the 16-year-old cutting inside in the penalty area and firing in at the near post.

Moments later, Alex Greenwood, who had surged forward brilliantly, crossed the ball but Kirsty Hanson’s downward header hit the post.

The visitors had to be wary of the threat from Bees midfielder Destiney Toussaint, whose direct runs down the right caused moments of concern for United. However, her

impact on the game was cut short as she was stretchered off just before half-time.

There was still time for a third United goal ahead of the interval, Millie Turner netting her first for the club. A cross into the box forced a goalmouth scramble and the defender’s diving header found its way into the net, giving Casey Stoney’s side a healthy half-time lead.

The visiting Reds continued to push for a fourth after the restart, and Green was the one to get it. Ten minutes into the second half, after some fine build-up play down the right, the 21-year-old midfielder was left in acres of space to put the ball through Sarah Quantrill’s legs in the Bees’ net for her second goal.

ADVANCED

3. Who scored our final goal of 2022? 1. Excluding British players, who has played most games for United Women since the team was formed in 2018? (Clue: she is no longer with the club.)

2. What number shirt does Nikita Parris wear for United Women? 3. Name the Academy manager for United Women: Charlotte .....? →

EXPERT

With 15 minutes to play, substitute Toone was on hand to make it 5-0 as she made the most of a poor clearance by Quantrill, rounding off another assured display in front of goal for the Reds, and another clean sheet.

1. At 35 years and 248 days, who holds the record for the oldest player to line up for United Women throughout our five seasons as a team? 2. In United’s promotion season of 2018/19, how many of our 20 Championship games did we win? ← 3. Aside from Liverpool, name the other three teams we’ve faced whose name begins with L?

CHAMPIONSHIP | THE HIVE | SCORERS: GREEN (17, 55), JAMES (27), M TURNER (44), TOONE (78) | ATT: 642

United Women: Chamberlain; Smith, A Turner (Sigsworth 45), M Turner, Greenwood; Palmer, Zelem, Green (Hartley 75); Hanson, James (Toone 56), Arnot

Green at the double as Reds light up Bees’ Hive

↑

RED ARMY!

← Hello to Eva, who is here as part of her ninth birthday celebrations. Her ‘BFF’ Ella hopes she has a really great day. Aww...

← Here are Matt, Rochelle and Liz at United Women’s most recent game at Old Trafford. We’re sure you all enjoyed yourselves!

↑ Here’s another birthday girl – Amelia, who is turning 12 and has travelled to today’s game all the way from Kent.

↑ We’re told that Penny is Russo’s biggest fan –for her eighth birthday she got a home kit with Lessi’s name on the back.

↑ Happy birthday to Jessica (hiding in her hood next to Fred!)

– she will be 11 on 30 January. All the best!

← Happy 16th birthday to Chloe –a huge United Women and Lionesses fan who regularly travels up to Leigh with her family from Shropshire to cheer us on.

Enjoy your Christmas present Henry (4) and Felicity (7), who are watching United Women for the first time together at LSV.

Opening doors to leadership

Football provides skills that last a lifetime. That’s why the Barclays Community Football Fund is giving grants to community sports groups who need it most. Find out more at home.barclays/footballfund

Community Football Fund

Barclays Bank UK PLC is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register number: 759676). Registered in England. Registered no. 9740322. Registered office: 1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP.

WSL TABLE, 2022/23

Rachel Daly (Aston Villa)

Khadija Shaw (Manchester City)

Fran Kirby (Chelsea)

Katie Stengel (Liverpool)

Dagny Brynjarsdottir (West Ham)

Sam Kerr (Chelsea)

Alyssa Aherne

0 0 0 0 0(1) 0 0(1) 0

Keira Barry 0 0 0 0 0(1) 0 0(1) 0

Ona Batlle 6 1 0 0 3 0 9 1

Sophie Baggaley 0 0 0 0 4 0 4 0

Hannah Blundell 9 1 0 0 0(3) 0 9(3) 1

Vilde Boe Risa 0(4) 0 0 0 4 3 4(4) 3

Mary Earps 9 0 0 0 0 0 9 0

Leah Galton 9 4 0 0 0(1) 0 9(1) 4

Lucia Garcia 5(3) 1 0 0 2(1) 0 7(4) 1

Hayley Ladd 7(2) 1 0 0 1(1) 0 8(3) 1

Maya Le Tissier 9 2 0 0 2(2) 0 11(2) 2

Adriana Leon 0(4) 1 0 0 3 2 3(4) 3

Jade Moore 0(3) 0 0 0 3 2 3(3) 2

Nikita Parris 7(2) 2 0 0 1(1) 1 8(3) 3

Alessia Russo 6(1) 4 0 0 0 0 6(1) 4

Lucy Staniforth 2(2) 0 0 0 3 0 5(2) 0

Martha Thomas 0(9) 0 0 0 4 1 4(9) 1

Maria Thorisdottir 3(1) 0 0 0 4 0 7(1) 0

Ella Toone 9 3 0 0 0(2) 0 9(2) 3

Aissatou Tounkara 0(1) 0 0 0 4 0 4(1) 0

Millie Turner 9 1 0 0 3 0 12 1

Rachel Williams 0(4) 1 0 0 3 1 3(4) 2

Katie Zelem 9 2 0 0 0(4) 0 9(4) 2

● ALL-TIME PLAYER STATS

Apps Goals

Ella Toone 114 44

Katie Zelem 112 29

Millie Turner 95 6

Leah Galton 94 26

Kirsty Hanson 90 16

Mary Earps 78 0

Hayley Ladd 71 6

Amy Turner 67 4

Ivana Ferreira Fuso 21 2

Charlie Devlin 20 6

Aoife Mannion 19 0

Christen Press 17 4

Aimee Palmer 15 1

Maya Le Tissier 13 2

Lucia Garcia 11 1

Tobin Heath 11 4

Nikita Parris 11 3

ASSISTS,

2022/23 Guro Reiten (Chelsea)

Caitlin Foord (Arsenal)

Ella Toone (UNITED)

Katie Zelem (UNITED)

Ona Batlle (UNITED)

Beth Mead (Arsenal)

Chloe Kelly (Manchester City)

Arsenal (right) v Chelsea (12pm)

Everton v Reading (1pm)

Leicester v Brighton (3pm)

West Ham v Man City (6.45pm)

Jessica Sigsworth 66 26

Jackie Groenen 60 0

Ona Batlle 59 3

Kirsty Smith 58 1

Lauren James 56 28

Martha Harris 49 1

Maria Thorisdottir 43 1

Alessia Russo 42 18

Hannah Blundell 41 1

Lucy Staniforth 41 3

Martha Thomas 37 7

Vilde Boe Risa 35 4

Lizzie Arnot 34 9

Jane Ross 34 7

Mollie Green 29 16

Siobhan Chamberlain 27 0

Alex Greenwood 27 5

Abbie McManus 25 2

Sophie Baggaley 10 0

Carrie Jones 10 0

Lotta Okvist 10 0

Jade Moore 9 2

Signe Brunn 7 0

Adriana Leon 7 3

Rachel Williams 7 2

Diane Caldwell 6 0

Emily Ramsey 6 0

Aissatou Tounkara 5 0

Naomi Hartley 3 0

Fran Bentley 2 0

Alyssa Aherne 1 0

Keira Barry 1 0

Tara Bourne 1 0

Rebecca May 1 0

Aurora Mikalsen 1 0

Karna Solskjaer 1 0

REDS ON

It’s Mills on wheels! We rewind 120 matchdays to where it all began for United Women, against today’s opponents in fixture no.1. Leading the way in this pre-match picture at Prenton Park – home of Liverpool Women (as well as Tranmere Rovers) – are Millie Turner and Kirsty Smith, with the pair both starting in defence against the Merseysiders in the Conti Cup. In the background there’s Ebony Salmon (left of picture) and Lucy Roberts (centre; the great-great-granddaughter of United and England defender Charlie Roberts). A pair of talented teens, they wouldn’t make a senior appearance for the Reds, but now – both at the grand old age of 21 – are continuing their development impressively out in the US (with Salmon flying home to

pick up the occasional England cap, of course.) As for midfielder Aimee Palmer to the right, she left for Bristol City in July 2020 on the back of 15 games and one goal, where she remains. The quintet couldn’t look any more relaxed here, and Turner and Smith certainly kept their cool on a momentous day, as we won 1-0 against a side from a division above us. Of those to start for us that afternoon, only Millie, Katie Zelem and Kirsty Hanson (on loan at Villa) remain with United, while four of the Liverpool XI are still on the opposition’s books: Leighanne Robe, Rhiannon Roberts, Niamh Fahey and Jasmine Matthews.

MANCHESTER UNITED WOMEN LIVERPOOL WOMEN

Head coach: Marc Skinner Head coach: Matt Beard

Ona Batlle

Maria Thorisdottir Jade Moore Aoife Mannion Hannah Blundell Ella Toone Vilde Boe Risa Martha Thomas Katie Zelem Leah Galton Hayley Ladd Maya Le Tissier Lucia Garcia Adriana Leon Aissatou Tounkara Millie Turner Nikita Parris Alessia Russo Grace Clinton Mary Earps (GK) Rachel Williams Sophie Baggaley (GK) Safia Middleton-Patel (GK)

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 15 17 19 20 21 22 23 26 27 28 32 39

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10 11 12 13 15 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 28 34

Rachael Laws (GK) Emma Koivisto Leighanne Robe Rhiannon Roberts Niamh Fahey Jasmine Matthews Missy Bo Kearns Leanne Kiernan Rachel Furness Melissa Lawley Taylor Hinds Rylee Foster (GK) Sofie Lundgaard Carla Humphrey Ceri Holland Shanice van de Sanden Yana Daniels Eartha Cumings (GK) Faye Kirby (GK) Gemma Bonner Katie Stengel Gilly Flaherty Megan Campbell Hannah Silcock

MATCH OFFICIALS

Referee Kirsty Dowle • Assistants Sophie Dennington, Abby Dearden Fourth official Ruebyn Ricardo