2022/23 SEASON • VOLUME 05 ISSUE 01 V READING WOMEN BARCLAYS WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE SATURDAY 17 SEPTEMBER 2022 • 12PM £2
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INSIDEWHAT’S MANCHESTER UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB Co-chairmen Joel Glazer, Avram Glazer Directors Bryan Glazer, Kevin Glazer, Edward Glazer, Darcie Glazer Kassewitz, Richard Arnold, Michael Edelson, Sir Bobby Charlton, Sir Alex Ferguson, David Gill CBE Secretary Rebecca Britain Honorary president Martin Edwards 393634323118170704 _ HEAD COACH’S COLUMN ↑ _ INSIDE STORIES _ INFOGRAPHIC _ MEET THE NEW PLAYERS _ CAPTAIN’S COLUMN _ THE OPPOSITION _ JUNIOR REDS & QUIZ _ FAN MESSAGES _ PLAYER & TEAM STATISTICS 10 24 04 Reds at the Euros Looking back on a brilliant July, and how it’ll give the WSL a boost Nikita Parris Our new forward on her WSL return, working with Marc Skinner, and meeting Sir Alex MATCH PROGRAMME TEAM Editor Charlie Ghagan Editor-in-chief Ian McLeish Contributors Sean Mullan, Harriet Drudge, Courtney Hill, Nathan Thomas Design Tom Chase, Andy Ball Photography Ash Donelon, John & Matt Peters, Getty, Alamy Thanks to Mitchell Parris @ Reading FC, Steve Bennett, John Shiel & Chris Leuty/MuPrint.com. © Manchester United 2022 03CONTENTS
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FOLLOWING A FEW WEEKS OF VERY HARD WORK BEHIND THE SCENES, THE BOSS CAN’T WAIT TO GET STARTED, WITH A WEALTH OF NEW PLAYERS TO CALL UPON TODAY
We are so excited to be with you again after an incredible summer for women’s football. I was lucky enough to be at Old Trafford for the opening game, as well as England’s semi-final, and watched a lot of matches at home with my daughter, Saede.
ello and welcome back to Leigh Sports Village for our opening fixture of the WSL season against Reading.
Our new signings are settling in well, though –so much so, that when Tooney arrived back, she said to me that it felt like she was the new signing being welcomed! That’s a testament to the spirit within this group. It’s special.
Lucia Garcia is an absolute livewire. She embodies agility, is aggressive in tackles and is a really exciting talent. Maya Le Tissier has an unbelievable amount of experience already for someone so young and really good game awareness from her time at Brighton. She’s thriving here already. And when I watched Grace Clinton last season, I was mesmerised by her desire to get the ball and make things happen. She’s a bit rebellious, which I like, and she doesn’t mind taking the ball in pressure situations.
and brings people together. Adriana Leon is a versatile addition to our attacking options, has great WSL experience and is an Olympic gold medal winner with Canada. I’ve seen a vibrancy from her that will add a lot to our team. Aissatou Tounkara adds great experience into the backline having played Champions League football. She is humble, wanting to learn and improve too – key traits I want to see in all of my players.
Nikita adds a wonderful edge and is excellent at timing her runs. I can see the fire reigniting in her that we’ve known and loved. Rachel Williams brings incredible experience in this league and is absolutely fearless. She is also the kind of character who gels
There’s been a lot of hard work behind the scenes and off the pitch to make sure we bring in the right types of players. Our focus has been on adding variants of experience as well as youth to help us evolve as a group and take us to the next level.
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The success of the Lionesses – including four of our own in Ella Toone, Alessia Russo, Nikita Parris and Mary Earps – has further inspired and enlightened a nation about the game. And now it’s up to us to keep that momentum going through the domestic season.
Reading will be a tough opponent to start against today – they are always organised and well-drilled –but we’re ready and can’t wait to get 2022/23 started with you by our side. Enjoy the match.
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We have recruited well, adding to our already incredibly talented squad. What we now have is the variance of ways to win a game.
A lot of our players, including a number of our new recruits, have been representing their countries all over the world this summer. That’s a good sign of what we’re doing as a club, though it also means we haven’t all been together for very many days.
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(and likely record-breaking) crowd expected at Leigh Sports Village –4,835 is the number to beat for previous United games played here.
STORIESINSIDE
Once the action begins, it could be a landmark day for captain Katie Zelem, who is set to become just the second player, after Ella Toone, to play 100 games for the Reds.
With the Royals’ WSL opener against Liverpool postponed, it’s been 13 days since Kelly Chambers’ side last played, when they beat fellow WSL side Aston Villa 3-2 in an entertaining pre-season friendly. Like us, Reading have seen many players arrive and leave over the break (see p32), making today’s contest an intriguing one between two new-look sides desperate to make a winning start. A fascinating 90 minutes awaits.
RESPECTFUL RETURN
Reds and Royals meet for ninth time, as WSL starts following Queen’s passing
So there’s sure to be a lot of emotion in the air as the teams get set for kick-off today, with a bumper
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A statement released by the FA earlier this week confirmed the protocol for this weekend: ‘We will be recommending to clubs, leagues and
It looks very likely that we’ll also see some players make a first appearance in the red shirt, with seven new arrivals (see p18) joining this summer. A number of players have left the Reds since we last played a competitive game, including three members of the ‘Originals’ (see p42) as well as Diane Caldwell, who could be facing the Reds today.
There will be a minute’s silence before today’s game, while all players will wear black armbands
ALL THE LATEST IN THE WORLD OF UNITED WOMEN NEWSLATEST
It’s been a very poignant start to September, with United’s scheduled Women’s Super League fixture at Tottenham – along with every game in the UK last weekend, from Premier League to grassroots level – postponed following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. That means the 2022/23 campaign starts belatedly for Marc Skinner’s side today, at home to Reading.
competitions across the country that a minute’s silence is observed before matches are played, and that black armbands should be worn where possible. All flags at Wembley Stadium and St George’s Park will continue to fly at half-mast this week and over the weekend. The FA can also confirm that all scheduled matches will be postponed on the day of Her Majesty the Queen’s funeral on Monday 19 September.’
Find out more about the matchday bus starting today, taking fans to our home and away fixtures
Old Trafford’s N3 car park (to the north-west of the stadium) will be the first departure point next Sunday
NEW JOINSCOACHREDS!
Just as this programme was going to print, it was confirmed that midfielder Jackie Groenen had made a permanent transfer to ParisJackieSaint-Germain.joinedUnited in 2019 and made her debut in the Manchester derby that September in front of 31,000 fans at the Etihad. The Dutch international went on to make a further 59 appearances as a Red.
The service is being run by longstanding Salford coach operators Go Goodwins Group, who also transport fans to watch United men’s team play.
Women’s Super League attendances are expected to see a significant boost as a result of the summer’s hugely successful Euros, but that will only partly explain the bumper crowd predicted to arrive at Leigh Sports Village today. That’s because this afternoon’s WSL opener will see the first supporter shuttle bus bring Reds direct to the game.
As MUWSC secretary Marc Henry tells us: “The shuttle bus service is something we’ve been asking about for some time now. We know LSV isn’t an easy place to get to if you don’t drive, and even if you do there’s not enough parking if we get a big crowd. We really
Organised by Manchester United Women supporters’ club (MUWSC), the new ‘OneClubUnitedTravel’ service has multiple pick-up points, starting at Old Trafford, then on to the Eccles Interchange and East Lancs Park & Ride (Wardley), before reaching LSV. If you’re stepping on to the bus at Old Trafford, there’s even free parking at the stadium.
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Jackie’s transfer was announced on Thursday
Well done to everybody who helped make it happen – the bus service can only help grow our magnificent support.
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If you’re interested in jumping onboard for a future game (it’s also a great way to meet like-minded Reds!) visit www.oneclubunitedtravel.co.uk to book your travel tickets, as well as to sign up for details about forthcoming games. There’s even an app you can download, enabling you to make bookings with a few simple clicks on your phone.
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Local firm Go Goodwins will be operating the service
Our next game, West Ham away on Sunday 25 September, is now available to book. It will depart Old Trafford’s N3 car park at 9.15am for the 3pm kick-off at Victoria Road, East London.
On her departure Jackie said: “I’ve had such a great time representing this wonderful football club. I’d like to thank the Manchester United staff, players, and fans for believing in me, and I will definitely follow the club’s achievements with great phaseofwishforwouldEveryoneinterest.”atUnitedliketothankJackieherfineserviceandhertheverybestluckinthenextofhercareer.
For our away games to the south, when a service is running there will be a pick-up point in Birmingham for any Midlands-based Reds.
hope people find it useful and it helps in turn to keep the crowds coming back.”
SO, HOW
WAS YOUR SUMMER? WITH THE LIONESSES CAPTURING THE HEARTS OF THE NATION IN JULY – AND UNITED PLAYERS SO CENTRAL TO ENGLAND’S SUCCESS – IT WAS A MAGICAL MONTH FOR WOMEN’S FOOTBALL IN THIS COUNTRY, AND NOW THE WSL WILL BE LOOKING TO BENEFIT FROM THE EUROS’ LEGACY...
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For England’s European Championship winners – including United quartet Ella Toone, Alessia Russo, Mary Earps and new arrival Nikita Parris –simply put, it’s made them all household names. “The best feeling of my life,” is how Ella succinctly summed up the six-game experience that culminated with her scoring in the Wembley final.
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Much has been said and written in recent years about the steady growth of women’s football in this country but it truly feels like the start of a new era, in a similar way to how Euro 96 brought the men’s game to a larger audience. Yes, there remains a sizeable gulf between the two in terms of attendances and overall finances, but there is a sense that in years to come, we could all be looking back to July 2022 as to when the women’s game in England took its biggest step forward.
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ne day shy of 20 weeks has passed since Marc Skinner’s Reds were last on home soil here in Leigh – and it would be quite the understatement to say that a lot has happened during that time in the women’s game.
A peak TV audience of more than 17 million tuned in to watch the BBC’s coverage of that showpiece against Germany on 31 July, and the ‘Euros effect’ has been clear to see ever since. In the Women’s Super League, season tickets have risen by close to 70 per cent compared to last term, with a spike in sales on the weekend of the Euros final as thousands snapped up great-value seats for the campaign ahead. No doubt fuelled by a feeling of ‘I wish I was there’ as viewers watched the Euros final on TV, it’s swept a new wave of support into the WSL, and hopefully one that will trickle down to the Championship and beyond.
Here at Leigh Sports Village, a record attendance for a United game at this stadium looks highly likely today, beating the high of 4,835, recorded against the same opposition in game number one, four years and one month ago.
So, lots to look forward to in 2022/23 then, including even more large-stadium fixtures than last season in the WSL (at Old Trafford, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Stamford Bridge, the Amex and others) while on the international scene Sarina Wiegman’s England side will be back at a full Wembley next month for a prestigious friendly against USA. But before all that, let’s relive that Euros drama one more time – and we’ll do it from a decidedly United viewpoint, naturally, beginning with a nervy night at Old Trafford on 6 July...
On to the knockout stages, beginning with an epic encounter back at the Amex – hosts England against pre-tournament favourites Spain, a tie that had five Reds on the pitch (plus soon-to-be United forward Lucia Garcia on the Spain bench) come the end of extra-time. →
Fellow Reds Maria Thorisdottir and Vilde Boe Risa were both part of Norway’s humbling loss to England, but they also featured in their country’s 4-1 win against Northern Ireland, while Vilde came on as a late sub in their third Group A game, a 1-0 loss to Austria – a defeat that saw Norway eliminated at the first hurdle. Jackie Groenen and Ona Batlle would have better luck, however, with both the Netherlands (7pts) and Spain (6pts) progressing from their respective groups in second place – Batlle playing every minute of all three fixtures; Groenen playing two and missing one, after a positive Covid test.
Earps links hands with Toone and Parris as they celebrate England’s quarter-final win against Spain
Sweet Caroline rang round the stadium (attendance 30,785) and on to the knockout phase England charged. For United’s deadly double-act wearing the ‘20’ and ‘23’ shirts, they seemed to be striking increasing levels of fear into opposition defences as they were unleashed from the sidelines. Future Red Nikita Parris – a forward with far more experience at international level – had to remain patient on the bench for now, but her opportunity to add to her 67 caps would come.
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A bigger test was expected to arrive five days later, as the Lionesses headed south to face Norway at Brighton’s Amex Stadium, but from the moment England won a 12th-minute penalty, it was both one-sided and brilliantly entertaining. Six goals up at the break, again Toone and Russo came on close to 60 minutes, with Alessia scoring just minutes later to make it 7-0. It was 8-0 by full-time, meaning another three points, a giant boost for the goal difference, plus another shut-out for Earps.
England’s final group game took place along the south coast in Southampton. Just the five goals this time (yep, and a third clean sheet for Mary), against Northern Ireland. Toone and Russo came on in unison once more – this time at the break – and boy, did they impress. Two more goals for Lessi, including one assisted by her United team-mate, and hugs all round at full-time.
Tournament openers are so often cagey affairs, and it was very much a case of ‘job done, take the points and move on’ for England after they edged a 1-0 win against Austria in front of 68,871 fans in M16. Our own Mary Earps kept goal that night, and she’d have been delighted with her clean sheet, having done particularly well to deny Barbara Dunst in the second half. Mary was the only Red to start, with fellow Reds Ella Toone and Alessia Russo joining the fray soon after the hour mark.
AN EPIC ENCOUNTER AT THE AMEX – THE HOSTS VERSUS PRE-TOURNAMENT FAVOURITES SPAIN – HAD FIVE REDS ON THE PITCH COME THE END OF EXTRA-TIME, WITH UNITED’S ‘GAMECHANGERS’ COMBINING ONCE AGAIN
five goals, all for the Swedes. The victorious Blagult (Blue and Whites) were back here for the quarters, as 7,517 saw them beat Belgium 1-0 to set up their semi-final with England. With four games, 15 goals and a total attendance of 27,503, it made for a brilliant few weeks at LSV, and away from the pitch,
Between the sticks, Earps’s run of clean sheets might have ended, but she was looking increasingly assured. Against Spain, Mary was an animated, vocal presence that kept her defence organised and on their toes, while she remained ever-alert with a number of reflex saves.
Three days later, England were back in the north –at Sheffield United’s Bramall Lane – for a semi-final that ended up being remarkably straightforward following a tense opening half-hour that Sweden bossed. It was Earps keeping England in it at that stage, but after Beth Mead struck at the other end on 34 minutes there looked
After a nailbiting 120 minutes, it was 2-1 to England, and the ‘gamechangers’ (as we like to call the substitutes here at United) were, predictably, Toone and Russo, the pair combining once again for Ella’s 84th-minute leveller before England’s fresher legs – including Parris in extra-time – overcame Spain after two hours of captivating football. Understandably, there were tears for Ona, but our much-loved full-back and 2020/21 Player of the Year could be proud of her energetic displays, and her English club team-mates were quick to console her.
the town of Leigh also enjoyed proceedings, with travelling fans from the four visiting nations mixing with the locals as they enjoyed activities in the sunshine. There was live entertainment, and family activities in Leigh’s Civic Square, with high praise for the local pies, as you would expect!
Leigh Sports Village also played its part during the Euros, with plenty of drama in the four games hosted here. For starters in Group C, Portugal and Switzerland played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in front of 5,902 fans. The Portuguese were back four days later, this time to take on the Netherlands. United’s
With Wiegman’s side overcoming such stellar opposition, suddenly the whole of England was starting to believe, with Sweden – the top-ranked side heading into the Euros – next up in the semis. Before then, the French and the Dutch met in Rotherham, with an extra-time goal for the French proving decisive. Les Bleues’ win was deserved, and for Groenen and her team-mates – champions in 2017 – there was only disappointment.
Batlle enjoyed an excellent tournament with Spain before their narrow exit against the hosts
FOUR GAMES, 15 GOALS & FIVE-STAR PIES!
The Dutch and the Swedes (right) brought much colour to WN7
Dutch midfielder Jackie Groenen had to miss the match due to a positive Covid test, but the two nations provided much drama in a see-saw contest, eventually won 3-2 by the Dutch (attendance 6,966). The final game of Group C, Sweden v Portugal, saw an even bigger crowd of 7,118 at LSV, plus another
Eight-time Euros winners Germany had the history behind them, but England were the team in form in July 2022, with Weimann, unsurprisingly, sticking with her
Earps, Toone, Russo and Parris were all on the pitch by the time referee Kateryna Monzul confirmed the outcome, with Mary – who would be named in UEFA’s Team of the Tournament – quick to sprint out her area to join her club team-mates in the frenzied celebrations.
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Wembley awaited, with fans up and down the country desperately searching for a late ticket for the showpiece fixture. For 17 million at home on the Sunday, any afternoon plans were cleared in order to crowd around the TV. England’s opponents would be Germany, following their 2-1 win against France (complete with Aissatou Tounkara on the bench at Stadium MK; the future Red starting two of France’s five games.)
What a finale, and what a magical month for the women’s game. “All we wanted to do was inspire the next generation and I think we have done,” said Toone that day. If there’s any doubting that sentiment, just take a look around the stands today at all the young girls and boys, many of whom will be here for the first time, and all of whom will be looking on in awe at our European champions, who – luckily for us – are finally back in their United shirts.
Extensive TV build-up; house parties; flags hanging out car windows; 87,192 fans through the turnstiles (a record for any Euro final, men or women)... it was a far cry from the previous Women’s Euros in England in 2005, when the Lionesses limped out in the group stage, and just over 21,000 saw Germany lift the trophy at Ewood Park.
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winning formula – by now it seemed inevitable that Toone and Russo would be sent on at some point in the second half, with everyone in the stadium anticipating the moment. For the biggest game of their lives, they stepped on to the field in quick succession 10 minutes after the break, with the tie goalless. Seven minutes later, United’s all-time appearance maker and scorer was sent through by Keira Walsh, and Ella produced a stunning chip that seemed to take an eternity to drop into the net: 1-0!
like being only one winner: those wearing all-white. Into the second half, and on came Russo after 57 minutes (Toone would have to wait a bit longer on this occasion). As the clock ticked on to the 68th minute, and the hosts already 2-0 up, came arguably the biggest ‘wow’ moment of the entire tournament: surrounded by two defenders on the corner of Sweden’s six-yard box and with her back to goal, Russo went for the option no-one was expecting: an outrageous backheel. Not only did it beat both defenders, but it flew through the legs of stunned keeper Hedvig Lindahl. A jaw-dropping finish, it effectively finished the Swedes off (Fran Kirby would add a fourth), and Russo’s instinctive bit of brilliance was later voted UEFA’s Goal of the Tournament.
A 79th-minute equaliser from Lina Magull changed the mood and would lead to extra-time. After the men were taken to penalties at the equivalent tournament the previous summer, it couldn’t happen again, could it? Thankfully another sub, Chloe Kelly, saved us all from such tension in the 110th minute, the forward reacting quickest from a corner to stab home what would prove to be the trophy-winning goal.
Our four England heroes show off their medals at Old Trafford in August, ahead of the Premier League game between United and Liverpool
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HOW’S THIS STARTERS?FOR 2020/21: 1-1 v CHELSEA WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE ● First home game in over six months ● No fans... so no match programme! ● Galton levels after Kerr’s opener 2021/22: 2-0 v READING WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE ● 2,111 here as fans return to games ● Hanson and Batlle get Reds’ goals ● First home opener that we’ve won Today we begin our fifth home campaign since the Reds were reformed in 2018 – with some very familiar opponents to get things going at LSV... MANAGER 04 United v West Ham United BARCLAYS FA WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE MONDAY 16 SEPTEMBER 2019 KICK-OFF 7.30 MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2019/20 SEASON VOLUME 01_36_MUW Covers.CGIM.indd BARCLAYS FA WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE FRIDAY 3 SEPTEMBER 2021 • KICK-OFF 7.45 OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2021/22 SEASON VOLUME 04 ISSUE 01 £1.50 2018/19: 0-2 v READING CONTINENTAL CUP GROUP STAGE ● First-ever home game as a professional side ● It remains our biggest crowd at LSV: 4,835 ● Chaplen and Davison win tie for Royals PREVIOUS HOME OPENERS: 2019/20: 0-1 v ARSENAL WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE ● United’s maiden WSL home fixture ● 2,530 crowd for Monday-night meeting ● Late van de Donk winner cruel on Reds OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2018/19 SEASON, VOLUME 1 ISSUE 1 FA CONTINENTAL TYRES LEAGUE CUP GROUP TWO NORTH SATURDAY 25 AUGUST 2018, 12 v READING FC WOMEN 17INFOGRAPHIC
She’s not the only forward who featured at Euro 2022, is she? She’s joined by Lucia Garcia, who played three times for Spain in the tournament and was on target in their opener against Finland. She built up a decent scoring record back home, with 19 goals in 63 games for Oviedo Moderno (where she debuted aged just 15) before joining Athletic Club in 2016. There, she briefly played in the Champions League, and netted 63 times in 161 games across six seasons before her summer switch to United, where she’ll be linking up with compatriot Ona Batlle. “Ona told me everything was great, and her input was another positive in my decision to come here,” said Garcia. “I’m made up to be here; I hope the fans have fun watching me.”
Including a new Lioness in town... Correct. Mary Earps, Alessia Russo and Ella Toone all played key roles in England’s Euro 2022 triumph and they’ve now been joined at United by an international team-mate in Nikita Parris, who has come in from Arsenal. Her winner’s medal at the Euros is just the latest in a series of high-profile honours. Nikita won the WSL in 2016, as well as two FA Cups and League Cups with Manchester City, before adding another league title, Coupe de France and Champions League with Lyon in 2019/20. She was crowned FWA Women’s Footballer of the Year in 2019, and was the all-time leading WSL scorer until October 2020.
It’s been a busy summer, then... Very much so. After narrowly missing out on a top-three finish last term, boss Marc Skinner has moved to strengthen his squad in a number of areas in a bid to climb up the table this time around. Alongside Academy trio Karna Solskjaer, Poppy Lawson and Maria Edwards, moving on permanently was Diane Caldwell, plus a trio of Reds from the club’s first-ever squad: Martha Harris, Fran Bentley and Kirsty Smith. Then, on Wednesday this week, came the big announcement that midfielder Jackie Groenen had moved on to PSG. Coming the other way, however, are seven players, with a mixture of established talents and very promising youngsters.
Some impressive scoring stats there. Any more attackers? Two more! Firstly, a very experienced head in Rachel Williams, who was top scorer in the first season of the WSL (2011) while at Birmingham, the year
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NEW?GARCIANETTED63IN161GAMESFORATHLETICCLUBBEFOREHERSWITCH
GET TO KNOW EACH OF OUR SUMMER RECRUITS A LITTLE BETTER – FIVE OF WHOM HAVE ARRIVED FROM WSL CLUBS, WHILE TWO HAVE SIGNED FROM SPAIN’S PRIMERA DIVISION
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We can’t wait to see Aissatou and Maya. And completing the set is... Another youngster, Grace Clinton, previously of Everton. The midfielder may not be as well-established as the other signings, aged just 19, but has already been part of an FA Cup final squad for the Toffees, while she’s started a Merseyside derby, helping Everton beat Liverpool in the League Cup. It was in the same competition she scored her first goal, against Manchester City, and she played 21 times in total, having made her senior debut as recently as October 2020. “I’m a very creative player,” she notes. “I’m quite free and exciting to watch. I’m quite lively and loud –I already feel like I’ll get on with a few of the girls quite well!” ●
What about at the other end? Aissatou Tounkara appeared in two of France’s Euro 2022 fixtures before a wrist injury cut her tournament short, and is the most recent signing, having arrived from Atletico Madrid in mid-August. The defender has played Champions League football with Juvisy (later renamed Paris FC) and Atletico. Previously, she helped the side win the league title in 2018/19, as well as reach the final of the Copa de la Reina, where they were beaten by Real Sociedad. Tounkara has been part of French World Cup squads at U17 (2012, winners), U20 (2014, third place) and senior level (2019, quarter-finals).
Is she the only new defender?
in which she was also named FA Players’ Player of the Year. The following term, she struck an injury-time equaliser for Birmingham in the FA Cup final en route to a shoot-out success. Williams later joined their opponents that day, Chelsea, before spells with Notts County and Tottenham either side of a return to Birmingham. She has 13 caps and four goals for England, and was part of Team GB’s 2012 Olympic squad. Speaking of which, the other new forward is Adriana Leon...
MAYA HOLDS THE RECORD FOR MOST WSL GAMES AS TEENAGER:A53
Ah, yes – a gold medallist, right? That’s right. She helped Canada take the prize in the Covid-delayed Tokyo Games, getting a goal against Parris, Toone and the rest of Team GB before scoring her spot-kick in a shoot-out win over Brazil in the quarters. She’s also twice finished as a runner-up at the CONCACAF W Championship, and has 27 international goals from her 88 caps to date. At club level, Leon played for 10 different teams – eight American, one Canadian and one Swiss – before making the move to West Ham in 2019, when she was part of the side that lost to Manchester City in the FA Cup final and their top scorer in her first full campaign.
Nope – also here is Maya Le Tissier, from Brighton. As a youngster, there were no girls’ teams on Guernsey where she grew up, so Maya was forced to fly to Hampshire twice a month, eventually joining the Seagulls in 2018. It didn’t take her long to get into the first team, with 2019/20 proving her breakthrough campaign as she appeared in 12 of 16 WSL matches. She has not missed a single league game since 19 January 2020 – making 47 consecutive appearances – helping her set the record for most WSL games as a teenager, with 53. “I’m quite a passionate player, and I love to win,” she explained. “You can always expect everything from me!”
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There are 4.36 million of us and we are tomorrow’s female future. We’re part of every community and come from all social backgrounds, cultures and religions with different skills and abilities. We’re an unstoppable force for good if we’re given the chance. The chance to play football. We want to play in the school curriculum, at breaktime, after school, at local clubs wherever, whenever we want. LET US PLAY. NO barriers, NO stereotypes Find out more at: www.EnglandFootball.com/LetGirlsPlay
Her objective? Take on the National Three Peaks Challenge, aiming to reach the top of Great Britain’s three highest mountains –Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon – all in the space of 24 hours!
With a background in, and passion for, climbing, Sarah set out to raise funds while giving pupils at
sport inclusive and accessible for all; however, we need to do more, and I wanted to make a difference.”
“I feel strongly that climbing is a natural skill that children have and should be encouraged in a safe space,” Sarah added. “So for them to have the equipment and a space to exercise those skills is so important.”
In May, Foundation SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) officer Sarah Jones embarked on a gruelling challenge with the ambition of making climbing more accessible to pupils who may otherwise have felt excluded.
How one dedicated Foundation coach has been helping to make sport climbing more inclusive
FOUNDATIONMU
“If we can show how climbing can be accessible for all, there’s really no limits to how other sports can do the same,” she concluded.
“There has been some progress over recent years in making this
If you would like to make a donation to support the Foundation’s work, please visit mufoundation.org/donate
Adaptive harnesses such as this enable many youngsters to embrace the fun sport
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“Sport climbing has been a huge part of my life for nearly 10 years,” Sarah explained. “It has numerous physical benefits, but it also improves communication, balance and coordination – as well as being really fun! We might need to provide support and use adaptive equipment, but disability should not be a barrier to accessing climbing.
Sarah takes a quick breather on her epic fundraiser
TRIPLECHALLENGINGCLIMB
And make a difference she did: completing the mammoth challenge in 23 hours and 28 minutes, Sarah raised over £1,000, and it made a swift impact. Soon afterwards, new specialist climbing equipment was purchased in time to form part of the Foundation’s inclusive holiday camps at the Seashell Trust in Cheadle.
And Sarah’s work hasn’t stopped there. She is currently in the process of setting up her own climbing qualification that will allow greater access to the sport for young people with SEND around the country. By giving instructors and centres the guidance, confidence and skills to provide inclusive climbing sessions, many new climbers, regardless of ability, can enjoy the sport.
the Foundation’s SEND partner schools the opportunity to enjoy the sport themselves, by providing them with specialist equipment.
Born: 13 July 1995
MOOREJADE
Nationality: English United apps/goals: 3/0
EARPSMARY
Born: 18 April 2002
Born: 25 May 1994
National team: England U23 United apps/goals: 0/0
BLUNDELLHANNAH
Born: 7 March 1993
Born: 5 June 1993
Nationality: English United apps/goals: 6/0
Born: 16 March 1995
Nationality: Norwegian United apps/goals: 35/1
Born: 10 June 1999
Born: 7 July 1996 Nationality: English United apps/goals: 83/5
Nationality: Norwegian United apps/goals: 25/3
Nationality: English United apps/goals: 29/0
Born: 24 September 1995 Nationality: English United apps/goals: 19/0
THORISDOTTIRMARIA
Nationality: English United apps/goals: 69/0
TURNERMILLIE
BATLLEONA
Born: 22 October 1990
BOEVILDERISA
BAGGALEYSOPHIE
LEMAYATISSIER
Born: 29/11/1996
Nationality: Spanish United apps/goals: 50/2
TOUNKARAAISSATOU
Nationality: French United apps/goals: 0/0
MANNIONAOIFE
GOALKEEPERDEFENDERDEFENDERDEFENDERDEFENDERMIDFIELDERGOALKEEPERDEFENDERDEFENDERDEFENDERDEFENDER 2715522182063324SQUADTHEMEET22 THE2022/23SQUAD
Born: 31 March 2003 Nationality: English United apps/goals: 0/0
Born: 2 October 1992 Nationality: Canadian United apps/goals: 0/0
Born: 10 March 1994 Nationality: English United apps/goals: 0/0
Nationality: English United apps/goals: 99/27
WILLIAMSRACHEL
Born: 10 January 1988 Nationality: English United apps/goals: 0/0
FORWARDFORWARDFORWARDMIDFIELDERMIDFIELDER FORWARDFORWARDFORWARDMIDFIELDER MIDFIELDER FORWARD 26 28223712917231911710 23SQUADTHEMEET
LEONADRIANA
THOMASMARTHA
Born: 8 February 1999 Nationality: English United apps/goals: 35/14
STANIFORTHLUCY
GALTONLEAH
PARRISNIKITA
Born: 14 July 1998 Nationality: Spanish United apps/goals: 0/0
TOONEELLA
RUSSOALESSIA
Born: 31 May 1996 National team: Scotland United apps/goals: 24/6
MIDFIELDER
Born: 2 September 1999 Nationality: English United apps/goals: 103/41
CLINTONGRACE
Born: 2 October 1992 Nationality: English United apps/goals: 34/3
LADDHAYLEY
Born: 6 October 1993 National team: Wales United apps/goals: 60/5
Born: 24 May 1994 Nationality: English United apps/goals: 84/22
GARCIALUCIA
ZELEMKATIE
Born: 20 January 1996
24 Q&A #22PARRISNIKITA
25EXCLUSIVEINTERVIEW
FROM THE MOMENT SHE ARRIVED LAST MONTH, OUR NEW NO.22’S WINNING MENTALITY HAS BEEN SO CLEAR TO SEE. HERE, NIKITA TELLS US WHY SHE CAN’T WAIT TO GET STARTED AT UNITED, WHILE REFLECTING ON HER EARLY YEARS AND THAT MAGICAL EUROS TRIUMPH…
Obvious place to start – you’re a European champion as of this summer! How does that feel six weeks on? It’s a feeling I’ll never get used to because it’s so surreal. You train all your life for moments like this and when it finally comes true… everyone would think of happiness as the first feeling you get, but it’s actually relief. Relief that you finally did it and all the work was worth it.
What was going through your head when that final whistle was blown at Wembley? I was like, ‘thank god!’, and I thought of all the hard work you put in over the years; the sacrifices you make – not just you but your family, your friends. It is a long road, especially when it’s taken us until now to win it. We’ve put in some big performances in previous tournaments and never really got over the line so it was nice to finally get over the line this time.
You’ve previously talked of your love for the movie Bend It Like Beckham because it showed you that girls could play football. How important will it be for the next generation to turn on the TV and see that this dream can be a reality for them, just as it was for you? That’s the thing: that their dreams can finally be their reality. For a long time in women’s football you felt like you could only get so far, and also with there not being much money in the game, not as much support and resources, players were quite limited when they got to an age of around 18, 19 – they might have been thinking, ‘you know, I could go and do a 9-5 job and still get paid more’. It’s the perseverance and fight that’s put us in the position we’re in now; look how much women’s football has grown in the last 10 years. It’s been phenomenal and it can only get better. We need big companies, we need Sky Sports, we need fans coming to games in order to continue to progress because as you can see there’s quality and beauty in women’s football – you just have to come and watch and have your first experience of the game. →
Interview: Courtney Hill
During summer you obviously got to spend time with Ella, Alessia and Mary. Did they influence your decision to come here at all or was a move well in motion before then?
YOUTH CAREER Everton
2019-21 Olympique Lyonnais 53 games, 33 goals
2010-16 Everton (below) 56 games, 21 goals
INTERNATIONAL CAREER England: 69 caps/17 goals
What are the other key points that convinced you Manchester United was the right move for you?
FULL NAME Nikita Josephine Parris
DATE OF BIRTH 10 March 1994
PARRISNIKITA26
For me it’s the amount of foreign players in the league that have brought a different dynamic to English football. Now, the different styles of play that teams play is very unique to each team, and English football has really improved because of that. And also, English players have really improved by watching the Spanish, the Norwegians, the Dutch... all coming into the league and seeing how they play and also being a team-mate and having different mindsets, that’s really helped the WSL grow. But I also think the player depth and the quality in teams now makes it way more competitive, which is obviously what you want.
SENIOR CAREER
Very difficult. I felt like I really didn’t get going at Arsenal. For me, I didn’t achieve what I wanted to and that’s what I want to put right this season.
2015-19 Manchester City 127 games, 62 goals
You returned to the WSL last season when you joined Arsenal after your time in France with Lyon. Have you noticed any major changes coming back? You notice things from the outside looking in but now you’re at the heart of it again, what’s different?
For me, it was also speaking to Marc about the project with the team and where he wanted to go – the winning
What’s your earliest memory of playing football, and when did you and your family first come to realise you were rather good at it?!
Great Britain: 4 caps/0 goals
You’ve had time with the squad and Marc in pre-season. How have you adapted to a new environment and how well are you getting along with your new team-mates?
FACTFILE
And just on a personal level, how did you find last season at Arsenal?
The move was already in motion, and I’ve known Mary for a very long time, since I was about 14. I played with her right the way through the youth ranks [with England] and I’ve had the opportunity over the last couple of years to play with Less [Russo] and also Ella. And also Katie Zelem, I’ve known her a very long time, too. So it was nice to know familiar faces in the group at United. I always used to say, the camaraderie the United girls had coming into camp [with England] was just different from any other club connection I’d ever seen. They really did look after one another in just everything, whether it’s walking, the gym, going to wellness... they’d always be together and be always looking after one another – and I really liked that. You do see that on camp, but it was so prevalent with the United girls. When Millie T was in there as well, they used to play cards and I’d want to join in. The vibe on camp was really, really nice and I was thinking, ‘there’s something different about that group’, and when you join the team you understand why. Team togetherness is huge here.
PLACE OF BIRTH Liverpool POSITION Forward
I’m getting on really well with my team-mates, it’s an easy bunch to come and be a part of and they’re really welcoming. I’ve come to United and it’s a totally different playing style to other teams I’ve played for, and every day
2021-22 Arsenal 38 games, 6 goals
mindset of Marc and how he understands it’s a process and not a thing that can happen overnight – and that’s how I’ve always thought about football, especially as I’ve matured. I think you know there are always processes and steps you have to go through in order to be the best, to be at the top. I think he understood that and as soon as he started talking I could relate to everything he was saying and that was really important.
I can remember being very young, probably four or five, sitting on the wall watching my brothers play in our local court and being desperate to join in but they were five or six years older than me at the time. But I remember once, one of my neighbours, Marcus, said “Nikita, why don’t you go and join in?”. That was it. I joined in every single day, I didn’t put the ball down or take a football kit off from that moment. I just loved football, I lived and breathed it.
Taking a step away from the football, who is Nikita Parris when she’s not on the pitch?
INTERVIEWEXCLUSIVE
27
I’m really looking forward to seeing Maya Le Tissier. She’s obviously joined as well as me this summer and I think she’ll be a really exciting young talent – not just for United but for England; she’s got a lot of quality. And linking up with Ona Batlle – she’s an exciting young player and she’s had a great couple of years at United so I’m really looking forward watching her progress and play alongside her.
My free time usually entails family. I tend to spend as much time with family as possible. Friends, going out for food, →
“THE CAMARADERIE THE UNITED GIRLS HAD COMING INTO ENGLAND CAMP WAS DIFFERENT FROM ANY CLUB CONNECTION I’D EVER SEEN... I REALLY LIKED THAT”
The 28-year-old puts pen to paper to join the fifth club of her senior career – her contract running until the end of 2023/24
I’m learning and that’s what I really enjoy. I can’t wait to come to training; when I’m leaving I’m thinking, ‘tomorrow I know I’m going to learn something new’. It’s great being on matchdays but when you can finally be a part of something and you feel like you’re growing and your understanding of football is getting better and better – that can only help you as an individual, but also as a team player.
and how we interact as a team, and how our mindsets are when we come into training; how he can try to get the best out of ourselves every day. He’s a motivator, he wants you to do well. He also makes you think of the individual but also how your individual talent can affect the team, and that’s what’s most important. He doesn’t try and mould you to be a part of a system, he wants you to express yourself.
You’re getting to know how these players work, as you see it all first-hand in training. Has anyone in particular in the squad really impressed you since you joined that you’re looking forward to seeing develop over 2022/23?
I think collectively we have to go from fourth up into that top three and that can only be judged by how we go game by game. The most important thing is that our mindset is right each game – each game is going to bring a different tactical element but also different individual elements and we’ve got to make sure every player is ready for that this season because the squad’s going to be important. And for me, personally, to go and win a trophy!
How does Marc compare to other coaches you’ve worked with throughout your career? He is definitely a lot more about the psychology of football
What are your hopes for the upcoming WSL season, both individually and as a team?
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Who is your idol that you model your game on?
catching up, having a laugh and a joke. I like to think I’m a quite light-hearted, banterous person and fun-loving.
How did you enjoy walking around at Old Trafford ahead of the United v Liverpool Premier League game, and what did you say to Sir Alex Ferguson? Yeah, that was special! Sir Alex Ferguson, you know, he’s iconic in football. To finally get to meet him was a dream come true. I’ve watched his documentaries, and the imprint he’s had on players’ careers, from Ronaldo to Rooney, Giggs, Beckham... you can name some of the greatest talent and he’s had an impetus on how they’ve improved and became some of the world’s best. To even speak to him for 30 seconds to a minute was really special.
It looks like this Reading game is set to be a record-breaking attendance for a United fixture at Leigh Sports Village... Yeah, that’s special. This is what we’ve been wanting in women’s football – crowds, people in the stadiums, that ‘12th player’ mentality when you’re at home, and creating a hostile atmosphere when you’re away. That’s what football is all about. It’s important we get these crowds and create a great atmosphere for the game ahead. I’m looking forward to my first outing at Leigh Sports Village and I can’t wait to see the fans and give them the result they want. ●
Goal Fleeting –a legend
all
Wembley
in Nikita’s eyes
July
machine
We kick off our season at home against Reading today. What are you expecting from this game? Reading will be really tough. Defensively they’ll be compact. They’ll make us play through them so we’ll have to break them down. If we’re not comfortable in possession or precise in our passing, they’ll try to hit us on the counter.
her new club-mates
of the Premier League’s best. I think his reputation speaks for itself. He was ruthless, clinical, fast, dynamic – everything I would like to think I am as a forward.
“THIERRY HENRY WAS A FAVOURITE GROWING UP. HE WAS RUTHLESS, CLINICAL, FAST AND DYNAMIC –EVERYTHING I’D LIKE TO THINK I AM AS A FORWARD”
05
INTERVIEWEXCLUSIVE
Thierry Henry and Julie Fleeting. They were my favourite players growing up. Julie Fleeting played for Arsenal and was, for me, one of the best strikers in a box you will find. She could only have 30 touches in a game, but sometimes five would be goals! She was just an incredible, incredible player. And Thierry Henry, well, he is without a doubt one
On target for England in the World Cup qualifiers earlier this month
Beaming smiles round at in alongside
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For those of us not at the Euros, it has been a long but really good pre-season. I think it was around nine weeks, but it was broken up nicely with friendlies.
In that time, we’ve welcomed seven new players to the team, all of them really good additions. We know it’s generally custom to have initiations for newbies, but we didn’t manage to this time. With seven, it probably would have taken too long! But that’s not stopped them from settling in well and super quickly.
COLUMNCAPTAIN’S
KATIEZELEM
What an amazing summer for the women’s game we’ve just had.
Although we haven’t been all together for too long, it feels like we’re in a good place. The Toulouse tournament was a decent test of that, and with us all there it was a great experience.
Happy new season, and enjoy the match.
They all bring different strengths and qualities; youth and experience. Marc has really covered all bases with who he’s brought in. As an entire squad,
The Euros was special from start to finish and how brilliant for the United girls to start the tournament at Old Trafford and finish by winning at Wembley. I’m so proud of what they’ve achieved and now we’re looking to bring that success to our domestic season.
Personally, I can’t wait to get back on the pitch for United. I am going to continue to give everything for the team and the club so close to my heart. I know everyone here wants to do the badge proud.
THE SKIPPER ON HER PRIDE FOR OUR EUROS CHAMPIONS, THE BENEFITS OF THE TOULOUSE TRIP, AND THE RETURN OF OUR ‘LITTLE RAY OF SUNSHINE’!
we’re all quite different, to be honest, but I think that’s what makes us a successful team. We come together collectively incredibly well.
As a team, it’s about taking the season step by step and seeing where that gets us. We have big ambitions, and with added strength in depth and you in the stands supporting us, we’re confident we can achieve them.
I say seven new signings, but really it feels like eight. We are absolutely delighted to have Millie T back with us again. Though she's been out for such a long time, she’s never changed off the pitch. She’s always been our little ray of sunshine.
31
So Chambers will hope her six new acquisitions can help the Royals follow a steadier path this time around, especially after losing experienced pair Brooke Chaplen (retired) and Natasha Harding (joined Aston Villa).
VISITORSTHE
An established WSL side, the 2022/23 campaign sees Reading begin their eighth successive top-flight season, with Kelly Chambers on the Royals’ touchline every step of that journey. Their best-ever WSL season came when they finished fourth in 2017/18, and after seventh and eighth-place finishes in their last two campaigns, the aim this time around will be a return to the top half. To achieve that, Chambers will want to see more consistency, but there’s no doubt her side have what it takes to beat those near the top. Last December, they clinched a famous win against Chelsea courtesy of Deanne Rose’s early goal. The Royals were all about determination and togetherness that day, and it came amid an eight-game run in the WSL that consisted of seven wins and a draw – title-winning
Forward Charlie Wellings, who has WSL experience with Birmingham and Bristol City, arrives full of confidence following a prolific spell with Celtic. American defender Brooke Hendrix is also back in the WSL, having lined up for West Ham in 2018/19, while experienced defender Becky Jane returns to the club. Then there’s the Irish trio – midfielder Lauren Wade and keeper Jacqueline Burns (both Northern Ireland internationals), plus a County Dublin-born defender we already know about (see right).
32
READING
Defender Gemma Evans, goalkeeper Jacqueline Burns and midfielder Lauren Wade show off Reading’s new home kit
form, but, remarkably, they didn’t win a league game all season either side of that streak (three draws; 11 losses).
THE ROYALS HAVE LOST TWO KEY PLAYERS IN THE OFF-SEASON, BUT WITH SIX RECRUITS, CHAMBERS WILL BE HOPING THEY ALL MAKE A FLYING START
Caldwell joined United on a short-term deal in January, playing six times for the Reds. A resolute defender who has experience of playing in a number of European leagues as well as the US, the 34-year old brings experience and calm to the back line, and will receive a warm welcome today.
FAMILIAR FACE WELLINGS EIKELAND
With the exit of Natasha Harding, Scottish left-back Mukandi (formerly Mitchell) will take the armband. “It’s an honour,” said the Scottish international, who turns 30 on Monday and became a mum in November. She joined in 2020, following seven years with Arsenal, which included a loan at Spurs.
PREVIOUSLY...
“WE’VE GOT A GREAT BUNCH OF GIRLS HERE, AND WE’LL ALL HAVE AN IMPORTANT ROLE TO PLAY” – EMMA MUKANDI
Their ex-captain stopped playing in 2012 due to injury, aged 26. Involved in a coaching capacity ever since, she led the Royals into the top flight in 2015, where she and her side have remained. She stands by a mix of youth and experience to create a well-balanced side and is always pragmatic in her approach.
MANAGER CAPTAIN CHAMBERSKELLY
The Reds and the Royals are no strangers to one another indeed, we’ve only faced Everton and Manchester City (10 games) more than Reading, who we meet today for a ninth time. The Berkshire side were a thorn in our side in 2018/19, memorably beating us in our first-ever home game, in the Conti Cup, then knocking us out of the FA Cup later that season. But since United gained promotion we’ve met six times, winning four: a 2-0 win and 1-1 draw in 2019/20; a 2-1 victory and 0-2 loss in 2020/21, followed by a pair of wins last term (2-0 and 3-1). Leah Galton (pictured) might fancy her chances today: she has three goals against the opposition. MUKANDIEMMA
33THEVISITORS LAST LINE-UP v ASTON VILLA (HOME, FRIENDLY) 28.08.22 MOLONEY ROWE WADEEVANS COOPER MUKANDI VANHAEVERMAET WOODHAM TROELSGAARD
CALDWELLDIANE
6 Sep 2019: Appointed club captain upon the team’s promotion to the WSL
THE CENTURYCAPTAIN'S
9 May 2019: Named United Women’s first-ever Player of the Year (see right!)
REDSJUNIOR34
Zel will be just the second player to reach a century of games for United – and two more could join the list this season! 103: Ella Toone → 99: Katie Zelem 84: Leah Galton 83: Millie Turner
Katie Zelem is set to make her 100th Reds appearance today – let’s look back at some of her many highlights!
20 Apr 2019: Helps United win the Women’s Championship title
9 Sep 2018: Scores on league debut for club, in 12-0 win away to Aston Villa
7 Oct 2020: Reaches 50 appearances for the club, away to Liverpool
27 Mar 2022: Nets a famous penalty at Old Trafford’s Stretford End against Everton
FACTS AND FUNNIES WITH THE UNITED MASCOT
CLUB100
5 Mar 2022: Scores twice direct from corners in one game, against Leicester
35ADVANCEDBEGINNEREXPERT THE QUIZ 1. Which United player scored in the Euro 2022 final? → 2. For how many full seasons has Marc Skinner been in charge of the Reds? 3. Where did United finish in the Women’s Super League last season? 1. From which county do this afternoon’s opponents Reading hail from? 2. How many new signings did the Reds make over the summer? 3. What squad number does Alessia Russo wear for the Reds? → 1. Who scored their first United goal in last season’s home win over Reading? 2. In which month and year was the Reds’ first meeting with this afternoon’s opponents? ← 3. Which two members of the current United squad have inplayedpreviouslyforReadingaWSLfixture? We’ve got three levels of (mostly) Reds-related posers! TIMEQUESTIONPOTY REDS! Here we salute the past four Player of the Year winners ANSWERS Beginner:1.EllaToone;2.One;3.Fourth;Advanced:1.Berkshire;2.Seven; 3.23;Expert:1.OnaBatlle;2.August2018;3.MaryEarpsandJadeMoore 2019 2020 2021 2022
ARMY!RED
↑ Freya and Esmae are excited to be back today – happy birthday to Esmae, who turns nine next week.
SEND YOUR PHOTOS AND MESSAGES TO MUWOMENFAMILY@MANUTD.CO.UK
MESSAGESFAN36
↑ Happy 10th birthday, Coco. “Surprise, we got you a season ticket!” say Mum and Dad. Enjoy the season ahead.
↑ Elwood and Maya Hynam are both looking forward to the start of the new WSL season.
← Happy 11th birthday (for today!) to Katie Rodger – have a brilliant time celebrating.
↑ Happy 14th birthday to Lily (in the middle). She loves football and plays for Astley & Buckshaw. Alongside her are Emily (holding the shirt) and Izzy.
← “This is what we wait for every weekend –supporting the girls up and down the country together!” say Nia and Hal from London (pictured here at Chelsea away last season).
↑ Matt Lee and Rochelle Garner had a great summer seeing the Lionesses win the Euros, and they can’t wait to see some of them back in action for United.
← Ella, aged 8, says she’s Ella Toone’s no.1 fan – the younger Ella is travelling to today’s game with her family, including mum Nicola.
↑ Emilia, aged 10, tells us: “I’m really looking forward to seeing Manchester United again, especially my favourite players Toone and Russo.”
↑ Here is Amelia with her flags, taken at the Toulouse tournament, where she was with dad Chris. Top Reds!
← Michael Carnall and girlfriend Adele are pictured here at their first game together at Leigh Sports Village. Adele has recently got into football and her favourite player is Mary Earps.
↑ Lottie, aged six, is looking forward to seeing her favourite player today, Alessia Russo!
MESSAGESFAN37
← Pictured are Leanna herShropshire,fromalongsidedad Kevin, supporting United Women at Old Trafford. They are finally heading to Leigh VillageSportstoday!
Kirsty Hanson 6(11) 1 0(1) 0 3(2) 0 9(14) 1
Martha Thomas 9(9) 5 2 0 4 1 15(9) 6
Lauren Hemp (Manchester City) Fran Kirby (Chelsea) McCabe (Arsenal)
Sophie Baggaley 6 0 Caldwell 6 0 Emily Ramsey 6 0
Rebecca May 1 0 Aurora Mikalsen 1 0
Ivana Ferreira Fuso 0(7) 0 1(1) 0 3(3) 2 4(11) 2
6 Katie
Hannah Blundell 19(2) 0 2 0 4(2) 0 25(4) 0
Diane Caldwell 5 0 1 0 0 0 6 0
Ella Toone (United)
Vivianne Miedema (Arsenal) Beth Mead (Arsenal)
8
Naomi Hartley 3 0 Jade Moore 3 0
Alessia Russo 19(3) 9 1(1) 0 3(3) 2 23(7) 11
27 0 Alex Greenwood 27 5 Vilde Boe Risa 25 3 Abbie
Signe Bruun 2(3) 0 0(1) 0 0(1) 0 2(5) 0
Fran Bentley 2 0 Tara Bourne 1 0
PLAYER
Sophie Baggaley 0 0 0 0 6 0 6 0
Aoife Mannion 12 0 1 0 6 0 19 0
Leah Galton 20(1) 8 1 0 4(2) 0 25(3) 8
Ella
Lucy Staniforth 7(5) 2 0 0 3(1) 0 10(6) 2
14
Millie Turner 4 0 0 0 3 0 7 0
6
6 ● WSL TOP ASSISTS, 2021/22 ● UNITED APPEARANCES AND GOALS, 2021/22 GOALS. APPS. TABLES. STATSFIXTURES AT THE BACK Liverpool return to the WSL at Prenton Park tomorrow
Vivianne Miedema (Arsenal)
Sam Kerr (Chelsea)
11
Ella Toone 22 7 2 1 3(2) 1 27(2) 9
Lauren Hemp (Manchester City)
LEAGUE FA CUP LEAGUE CUP TOTAL APP GLS APP GLS APP GLS APP GLS
Carrie Jones 0(3) 0 1 0 2 0 3(3) 0
Ona Batlle 21 1 1 0 4(1) 1 26(1) 2
Karna Solskjaer 1 0
Khadija Shaw (Manchester City)
Karna Solskjaer 0 0 0(1) 0 0 0 0(1) 0
Jackie Groenen 12(4) 0 1(1) 0 1 0 14(5) 0
Siobhan Chamberlain McManus Brunn 7 0
Kirsty Smith 3 0 1 0 2 0 6 0
Martha Harris 0(1) 0 0(1) 0 1 0 1(2) 0
9 ● WSL TOP SCORERS, 2021/22 ● THIS WEEKEND'S OTHER WSL FIXTURES YESTERDAY: Arsenal v Brighton (7.30pm) TOMORROW: Aston Villa v Manchester City (12.30pm); Leicester v Tottenham (3pm); West Ham v Everton (3pm); Liverpool v Chelsea (6.45pm)
Alessia Russo (United)
Beth Mead (Arsenal)
10
● ALL-TIME PLAYER
Hayley Ladd 12(2) 2 1 1 2(1) 0 15(3) 3
25 2 Martha Thomas 24 6 Ivana Ferreira Fuso 21 2 Charlie Devlin 20 6 Aoife Mannion 19 0 Christen Press 17 4 Aimee Palmer 15 1 Tobin Heath 11 4 Carrie Jones 10 0 Lotta Okvist 10 0 Signe
20
9
Diane
AppsSTATSGoals
Mary Earps 22 0 2 0 0(1) 0 24(1) 0
Maria Thorisdottir 17(3) 1 2 0 4(1) 0 23(4) 1
8
39STATISTICSTeam P W D L GD Pts 1 Chelsea 22 18 2 2 51 56 2 Arsenal 22 17 4 1 55 55 3 Manchester City 22 15 2 5 38 47 4 UNITED 22 12 6 4 23 42 5 Tottenham 22 9 5 8 1 32 6 West Ham 22 7 6 9 -10 27 7 Brighton 22 8 2 12 -14 26 8 Reading 22 7 4 11 -19 25 9 Aston Villa 22 6 3 13 -27 21 10 Everton 22 5 5 12 -23 20 11 Leicester 22 4 1 17 -39 13 12 Birmingham 22 3 2 17 -36 11
Jade Moore 0(3) 0 0 0 0 0 0(3) 0
● WSL FINAL TABLE, 2021/22
Katie Zelem 22 5 2 1 4(1) 1 28(1) 7
club)thelefthaveitalicsin(Names
8
Vilde Boe Risa 8(9) 2 0(2) 0 4(2) 1 12(13) 3
Toone 103 41 Katie Zelem 99 27 Kirsty Hanson 90 16 Leah Galton 84 22 Millie Turner 83 5 Mary Earps 69 0 Amy Turner 67 4 Jessica Sigsworth 66 26 Jackie Groenen 60 0 Hayley Ladd 60 5 Kirsty Smith 58 1 Lauren James 56 28 Ona Batlle 50 2 Martha Harris 49 1 Alessia Russo 35 14 Maria Thorisdottir 35 1 Lizzie Arnot 34 9 Jane Ross 34 7 Lucy Staniforth 34 3 Hannah Blundell 29 0 Mollie Green 29 16
40 WSLAUGUST Sat 17 Reading (H) 12pm WSL Sun 25 West Ham (A) 3pm CC Sat 1 Aston Villa (A) 12.30pm WSL Sun 16 Brighton (H) 12pm WSL Sun 23 Leicester (A) 3pm CC Wed 26 Durham (A) 7pm WSL Sun 30 Everton (A) 2pm WSL Nov 6 Chelsea (H) 12pm WSL Nov 20 Arsenal (A) 2pm WSL Sun 4 Aston Villa (H) 12pm CC Wed 7 Everton (H) 7pm WSL Sun 11 Man City (A) 2pm CC Sun 18 Sheffield United (H) 12pm WSL Sat 14 Liverpool (H) 12pm WSL Sun 22 Reading (A) 2pm CC 25/26 Quarter-finals FA Sun 29 Fourth round WSL Sun 5 Everton (H) 12pm CC 8/9 Semi-finals FA Sun 26 Fifth round WSL Sun 5 Leicester (H) 12pm CC 4/5 Final WSL Sun 12 Chelsea (A) 2pm FA Sun 19 Quarter-finals WSL Sun 26 West Ham (H) 12pm WSL Sun 2 Brighton (A) 2pm FA Sun 16 Semi-finals WSL Sun 23 Arsenal (H) 12pm WSL Sat 29 Aston Villa (A) 12.30pm WSL Sun 7 Tottenham (H) 12pm FA 13/14 Final WSL Sun 21 Man City (H) 12pm WSL Sun 28 Liverpool (A) 2pm WSL - Tottenham (A) DATECOMPETITION OPPOSITION SCORE ATTENDANCE FIXTURESLINE-UP & RESULTS TBCMAYAPRILMARCHFEBRUARYJANUARYDECEMBERNOVEMBEROCTOBERSEPTEMBER
41STATISTICSSEASONUSEDSUBS manutdwomenFacebook: (United score listed first. All fixtures subject to change – visit ManUtd.com/fixtures for the latest fixtures information) Match programme contact: MUWomenfamily@manutd.co.uk For ticket information visit: ManUtd.com/Tickets THEFOLLOWREDS: @manutdwomenTwitter: /ManUtdYouTube: @manutdwomenInstagram: KEY: WSL - Women’s Super League CC - Continental League Cup FA - Women’s FA Cup Scorers Bold Penalty • + own goal ↑/↓ won/lost on penalties Subs used: 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th Yellow/red card
Fun fact: the ‘Originals’ never played a competitive game in this kit, with the 2018/19 home kit released later that month
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DATE 04 JULY VICTORIALOCATION2018WAREHOUSE,OLDTRAFFORD
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front and side) are Kirsty Hanson, Martha Harris and Kirsty Smith, while Fran Bentley is in there somewhere with her gloves on. This summer, we’ve been sad to see Martha, Kirsty S and Fran depart the club in permanent moves – to Birmingham, West Ham and Bristol City respectively – while Kirsty H is off to Aston Villa in a loan switch for the season ahead. As ‘Originals’, they will always have a special place in the history of United Women, and we wish them all the best for 2022/23 and beyond.
Yep, it’s the 21 ‘Originals’, posing together at the team’s first-ever media day, which took place just around the corner from Old Trafford on a beautiful summer’s day in 2018. “Everyone around us at the shoot was saying we look like we’ve been mates for years, but we’ve only known each other for about a week!” smiled Millie Turner, who along with Ella Toone, Katie Zelem and Leah Galton remain squad members for the 2022/23 campaign. Also in this photo (we’re sure you can pick them out near the
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MATCH OFFICIALS Referee Abigail Byrne • Assistants Melissa Burgin, Georgia Ball Fourth official Stacey Fullicks Grace Moloney (GK) Faye JaquelineRachelRebeccaDianeBrookeDeannaEmmaLaurenNatashaAmalieCharlieDeanneGemmaEmmaBrysonMukandiEvansRoseWellingsEikelandDowieWadeHarriesCooperHendrixCaldwellJaneRoweBurns (GK) Justine Vanhaevermaet Lily HannahWoodhamPoulter (GK) Bethan Roberts Freya Meadows Tuson Madison Perry Mae Hunt Tia SannePrimmerTroelsgaard5137353433313028272523181715141211109765321Ona Batlle Maria SophieAissatouHannahAoifeThorisdottirJadeMooreMannionBlundellEllaTooneVildeBoeRisaMarthaThomasKatieZelemLeahGaltonHayleyLaddMayaLeTissierLuciaGarciaAdrianaLeonTounkaraMillieTurnerNikitaParrisAlessiaRussoGraceClintonMaryEarps(GK)RachelWilliamsBaggaley(GK)LucyStaniforth 37322827262322212019171512111098765432 Head coach: Marc Skinner Manager: Kelly Chambers UNITEDMANCHESTERWOMEN WOMENREADING
