Manchester United Women v Arsenal City Women match programme WSL 16.09.19

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OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME 2019/20 SEASON • VOLUME 02 ISSUE 01

BARCLAYS FA WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE MONDAY 16 SEPTEMBER 2019 KICK-OFF 7.30 pm

09/09/2019 21:48

CONTENTS

AND WE’RE OFF! It’s been a long wait to see United back on home soil (128 days to be precise!) but what a fixture as the Reds return to Leigh Sports Village tonight, with last season’s WSL champions Arsenal the visitors.

Joe Montemurro’s Gunners edged past West Ham in their league opener last weekend (p30), a day after United ended the Manchester derby empty handed, despite a highly encouraging performance in front of 31,213 fans (p7).

Casey Stoney, as well as new skipper Katie Zelem, reflect on the derby in their respective columns (p4, p17), while you can learn more about all seven of our recent signings (p15) – including the latest, Norwegian Aurora Mikalsen.

Lauren James is one Red with added interest in this evening’s game, and the ex-Gunner shares the story of her career so far in our big interview (p18). And if you’re after stats (p33) or great fan photos (p26), we’ve got you covered!

p4

Casey Stoney column

p7

Manchester derby

p10 Summer of change p15 Meet the new signings p17 Katie Zelem column p18 Lauren James exclusive p25 Fred’s fan zone/gallery p30 Tonight’s opposition p33 Player and team statistics

MANCHESTER UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB Co-chairmen Joel Glazer, Avram Glazer Directors Bryan Glazer, Kevin Glazer, Edward Glazer, Darcie Glazer Kassewitz, Ed Woodward, Richard Arnold, Michael Edelson, Sir Bobby Charlton, Sir Alex Ferguson, David Gill CBE Secretary Rebecca Britain Honorary president Martin Edwards MU WOMEN MATCHDAY PROGRAMME TEAM Editor Charlie Ghagan Editor-in-chief Ian McLeish Contributors Harriet Drudge, Feargal Brennan, Adam Bath Design Anthony Moore Photography Ash Donelon, John Peters, Matthew Peters, Getty, PA Images Thanks to Haylee Howe, John Shiel, Stephen Bibby Printed by MuPrint.com © Manchester United 2019

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HEAD COACH

CASEY STONEY THE HEAD COACH’S COLUMN

The signs are promising following our opening-day WSL fixture, and I’m confident our new-look squad will come to prosper in the top division...

Welcome back to Leigh Sports Village for our first home league match in the Women’s Super League.

We started our season with a visit to our neighbours in blue and it was a bittersweet experience. My overriding emotion was pride at how the players acquitted themselves in the first Manchester derby, a game that came with a big build-up. I thought we deserved something on the balance of play – a draw would have been a fair result.

I was particularly impressed with our first-half display.

We dominated, created better chances and were unlucky not to be ahead. We needed to be better in the second half though. I changed things tactically, which maybe didn’t work so I’ll reflect on that, but to limit City’s opportunities as we did gives us confidence going into tonight’s match.

Arsenal are a team brimming with full internationals who have played World Cups and European Championships.

We’re full of respect for them and Joe Montemurro has done a wonderful job. We’ll need to be well-organised defensively but we know what we can do to hurt them if we get our game plan right. Our squad, by comparison,

is still very new, both to the league and to each other. We had six debutants against City. We know we’ve got a lot of work to do, but the signs are there that we can more than hold our own against the very best in the country.

Last season we created a lot of chances and scored a lot of goals. This season will be different, but we are creating chances and getting into the right areas. At this level you get fewer chances so we know we need to be more clinical. That will come with confidence and time.

Our supporters, as ever, will be huge for us this season. I have to mention the fans we saw (and heard!) at the Etihad – there were serious numbers of red shirts all around the ground and had we scored I think the roof would have come off!

It’s our aim to make this ground a place no visiting team wants to come to. You are a big part of that. You know your job from the stands.

Now it’s down to us on the pitch. Enjoy the game.

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HEAD COACH

Y “LAST SEASON WE CREATED A LOT OF CHANCES AND SCORED A LOT OF GOALS. THIS SEASON WILL BE DIFFERENT, BUT WE ARE GETTING INTO THE RIGHT AREAS” Manchester United Women v Brighton Hove Albion 08

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Mancheste

ENGLAND WEMBLEY GERMANY STADIUM

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SATURDAY 9 NOVEMBER 2019 — 5.30PM TICKETS £15 ADULTS / £1 KIDS THEFA.COM/TICKETS

DERBY DAY

MATCH CENTRE

• Reds so close to claiming point in Manchester derby • Visiting fans pack away end in WSL-record crowd

What a moment as the players walk out in front of a huge crowd at the Etihad

Groenen can’t believe it as her late effort hits the post

KEY STATISTICS MANCHESTER CITY WOMEN 1 MANCHESTER UNITED WOMEN 0 SATURDAY 7 SEPTEMBER, ETIHAD STADIUM Scorer: Weir (48) Attendance: 31,213 Referee: Rebecca Welch United line-up: Earps; Ladd, McManus, M Turner, Okvist (A Turner 56); Groenen, Zelem (c), Toone; Sigsworth; Ross (James 80), Galton (Hanson 76) Substitutes not used: Mikalsen, Harris, Smith, Arnot

United Women produced a valiant display, but ultimately fell to a narrow defeat in our inaugural match in the Women’s Super League, against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.

In front of a WSL-record crowd of 31,213, the Reds came closest to breaking the deadlock in the first half, with Jane Ross having a close-range effort saved superbly by City keeper Ellie Roebuck. The hosts took the lead soon after the restart, however, as Caroline Weir rocketed in a stunner from 20 yards, which proved to be the winner. United maintained the attacking intent though, and came within inches of drawing level late on,

Earps overcame an early injury scare on her debut

when Jackie Groenen hit the post. The Dutch midfielder was one of six debutants in Casey Stoney’s side.

Mary Earps made her United bow in goal, with Sweden Under-23 defender Lotta Okvist and Wales international Hayley Ladd slotting in as the full-backs.

Abbie McManus started against her former club, while World Cup finalist Jackie Groenen partnered Ella Toone, and new skipper Katie Zelem, in the middle of the park.

Our summer arrival from West Ham United, Jane Ross, led the line for our first game of the WSL campaign.

Under the late-summer Manchester sunshine, the Reds made a bright start to the proceedings, with our first scoring attempt coming in the sixth minute. Leah Galton, one of five players in the starting XI from our Championship-winning season, cut in from the left and sent a long-range effort flying just over the goal.

There was cause for concern at the other end minutes later, when Earps went down clutching her foot following a late challenge by a City player moments before. After being tended to by the United medical team, the England international was able to continue.

The Reds continued to graft and Jess Sigsworth was very nearly played through after an incisive ball over the top by Ross, who had dropped deep. Our top scorer Manchester United Women v Arsenal Women 07

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DERBY DAY

“WE GOT A BIT UNLUCKY BUT THEY HAD ONE BIG CHANCE, A DISTANCE SHOT, AND THEY TOOK IT” – JACKIE GROENEN

McManus had an assured debut as she took on her former team-mates

THE BIG NUMBERS

9

6

Shots on the City goal by Stoney’s side, who had two efforts on target

Number of Reds to make their debut – with all six named in the starting XI

6K

34

The attendance was nearly 6,000 more than Chelsea v Spurs the following day

Number of days until we face City again – this time at home in the cup

from last season was denied as City stopper Roebuck rushed off her line to smother the danger.

Roebuck was called into action again halfway through the first half, as Ross came within inches of scoring on her debut. Zelem played the ball towards Galton who had made a beautifully timed run down the left. The winger whipped in a dangerous cross but Ross’s first-time shot was superbly saved by Roebuck.

City had a half-chance five minutes before the interval, as Keira Walsh nutmegged Toone on the halfway line, before Georgia Stanway played in Weir, whose crack at goal was saved with ease by Earps.

United had many positives to draw on going into the break, with Zelem dictating the play from her holding role and Groenen covering every corner of the pitch.

Unfortunately our hard work was undone within three minutes of the restart. Zelem’s clearance from a City corner fell to Weir, and the Scotland international unleashed a rocket of a strike from outside the box that flew into the top-right corner to give the hosts the lead.

Although our local rivals now had something to hold on to, United continued to strive for an equaliser and Galton attempted to create an attack down the left. Her cross from an acute angle couldn’t find a team-mate, but was put behind by Roebuck to give the Reds a corner.

City came close to doubling their lead from the resulting set-piece, however. Janine Beckie drove at the Reds’ defenders, who were racing back into position.

Thankfully, Amy Turner did enough to put off the forward, whose shot from just inside the area went wide of goal.

As the game entered the final 10 minutes, we had our best chance to level. Groenen pounced on a loose ball in midfield and showed great tenacity to work her way into the box. Although Groenen fell over the ball she was still able to get a shot away, but it bounced off the post and into the grateful grasp of Roebuck.

While Weir’s brilliant strike ultimately proved to be the difference, Stoney’s side can take plenty of positives from our first game in the top flight. As Groenen herself summarised: “We got a bit unlucky but they had one big chance, a distance shot, and they took it. We had five or six chances and we didn’t take them.”

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NEWS

OFF-SEASON ROUND-UP

WINDS OF

CHANGE

What an eventful summer it’s been, both for the Reds and for England’s Lionesses, who helped bring the women’s game to a new audience...

Lizzie Arnot, Mary Earps, Jackie Groenen, Abbie McManus, Jane Ross and Kirsty Smith were among the 552 players proudly representing their country at this summer’s FIFA Women’s World Cup. As well as for those taking part, it was a tournament that will live long in the memory for all fans of the women’s game, with the legacy created in France set to have a crucial impact on the Women’s Super League for years to come.

Widespread TV coverage of all the World Cup matches brought the names and faces of many WSL stars into homes and pubs across the country, with interest only increasing as Phil Neville’s England progressed deep into the competition. The Lionesses’ semi-final defeat to eventual champions USA attracted 11.7m viewers on the BBC – at the same stage of the competition in 2015, 2.4m watched England v Japan on the same channel.

The transformation of the new-look WSL had been in the works since back in spring, and the feelgood factor of the World Cup only served to increase the anticipation for the start of the domestic campaign last weekend.

In March, Barclays announced it would become the primary sponsor of the WSL from 2019/20, and as part

of the new deal it would inject in excess of £10m into the league and its clubs over the next three years. This will provide funding for grassroots development and club infrastructures, as well as logistical support for the newly promoted sides, as part of the WSL expansion from 10 to 12 teams – “a real landmark moment in the development of the women’s game,” according to Kelly Simmons, FA director of the women’s professional game.

While there was no prize fund in place for Arsenal last season, the 2019/20 WSL champions will receive £100,000

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NEWS

Even the Glastonbury Festival got caught up in Women’s World Cup fever

MOTIVATION FOR EVERY TEAM Alongside the increased financial bonuses for the new season – including a prize-money pot of £500,000 for the WSL – August saw the FA announce changes to the way WSL fixtures will be broadcast. The BBC, via the iPlayer, is to screen one live match per week in the WSL, while the FA has confirmed the launch of ‘FA Player’, a free online streaming platform for women’s football, showing over 150 live games across league and cup competitions for teams in England’s top two divisions.

The rise in investment and coverage means many more eyes will be on the WSL this season, with the challenge of meeting expectations set to form a huge motivating factor for every team in the top flight, with the prize fund split across all 12 teams depending on their final position.

THE RISE IN INVESTMENT AND COVERAGE MEANS MANY MORE EYES WILL BE ON THE WSL The dozen clubs have also reacted to the changes by exploring the possibility of more WSL and European fixtures being played at their main stadiums. United kicked off the season with a Manchester derby at the Etihad nine days ago, before Chelsea took on Tottenham at Stamford Bridge the following afternoon. Don’t expect it to end there.

United’s promotion offers a unique opportunity for Casey Stoney’s team to make a big impression at a key time for women’s football. Establishing United as a permanent fixture in the top tier is the primary objective and Casey is confident about what’s next. “The players have come back from the World Cup in a really positive place and we’re ready for the challenge,” says Stoney. “We know it won’t be easy, and that tough times and difficult periods lie ahead, but we are prepared and looking forward.” ⊲

The phenomenal standard of the World Cup really caught the eye, with Dutch star Groenen (above) one of those to take on USA in the final

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NEWS

“WE WISH ALEX THE VERY BEST BUT WE KNOW WE ARE NOT ABOUT ONE PLAYER...

WE HAVE A FANTASTIC SQUAD” Stoney has not shied away from facing what will be demanded from her squad this season and she’s left no stone unturned in her preparations. The squad travelled with the men’s side for a pre-season tour of Norway, with the head coach eager to test her players against experienced internationals ahead of the new campaign.

“The trip to Norway was invaluable for us,” she says.

“We probably knew we would come up short against Valerenga [United losing 4-1], but if I’m being honest, that was done on purpose, to provide the players with a difficult test against a side that is already in the middle of their season. But it was great to win the second game [5-0 against Sandefjord]. I feel we all learnt a lot about each other on the tour, as well as having some downtime as a team, which is important.”

TOP-FLIGHT NOUS With Manchester United Women entering into new territory this season, Stoney is all too aware of the need for experience and leadership in her squad for 2019/20.

As a former England captain herself, this drive for top-flight nous has governed her transfer policy, with Abbie McManus, Hayley Ladd and Jane Ross joining from Manchester City, Birmingham and West Ham respectively.

Stoney has also dipped into the European market, with ex-Reading keeper Mary Earps joining from Wolfsburg, alongside fellow keeper Aurora Mikalsen (from Norwegian club Kolbotn), Lotta Okvist (from Swedish side Hammarby), and World Cup finalist Jackie Groenen (from Frankfurt).

“We’ve brought in some characters, and they are all really talented players,” says Casey. “They’ll add a much-needed wealth of experience to the side. They’ve been a real breath of fresh air so far, and fitted in straight away.”

The biggest headlines of the summer for United Women were reserved for Alex Greenwood, however, as last season’s captain signed for Champions League winners Lyon in early August. Other departures since our last home game, against Lewes on 11 May, are Charlie Devlin (Charlton), Naomi Hartley (Sheffield

United), Lucy Roberts (University of South Florida) and Ebony Salmon (Bristol City), while Aimee Palmer has joined Sheffield United on a season-long loan deal.

“Losing Alex is obviously a big loss for the club and the team,” says Stoney. “She was a big part of the team last year, and will remain part of the club’s history forever. We wish her the very best for her new challenge, but we know we are not about one player – every player contributes and we have a fantastic squad for the season ahead.”

In July, goalkeeper Siobhan Chamberlain announced she will be taking time off to have a baby, with Stoney confirming that this motivated the move for Earps.

“Siobhan will be fully supported by the club and she is an important player on and off the pitch for us,” says the head coach. “Even though her name will not be on the team sheet, her experience and leadership remain key for us.”

After facing Manchester City away on the opening weekend, the challenging start to life as a top-flight team continues tonight for Stoney’s side, with this evening’s game against the reigning champions followed by a home clash with Liverpool on 28 September, an away meeting with Tottenham on 13 October, and a second Manchester derby of the season on 20 October – this time on home soil in the Continental League Cup. What a few weeks, and months, it promises to be for Stoney, her charges and all you fans. Hold on tight!

The Valerenga friendly in Norway helped the Reds get back up to speed ahead of the new season

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WIN. RINSE. REPEAT.

Follow @KohlerUnited on

or visit KohlerUnited.com

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SEVENTHE SIGNINGS SQUAD

WHO’S NEW? Introducing MU Women’s seven summer arrivals… welcome aboard, all!

JACKIE GROENEN

JANE ROSS

Midfield, signed 01.07.2019

Forward, signed 04.07.2019

United Women’s first overseas signing, Dutch World Cup finalist Jackie spent 2014/15 with Chelsea before returning to the German league to sign for Frankfurt, the club she left to join the Reds. Jackie was once an elite judo athlete, but in 2011 she chose to focus solely on her football. That now looks like a smart decision!

Casey Stoney says: “Jackie brings that Dutch mentality to our changing room, which is great. She’s always, ‘Slow things down, speed things up, slow things down’ – not everything has to be at 100mph.”

ABBIE McMANUS Defender, signed 01.07.2019 The 26-year-old England international defender had been with Manchester City for 12 years – their longest serving player – and left having helped them to a domestic cup double. A childhood United fan, Abbie described the switch across town as a “childhood dream come true”.

Stoney says: “I worked with Abbie as assistant coach at England, and she’s a good one v one defender and a great ball player. She strengthens our defensive capabilities and we have more options there to pick from.”

HAYLEY LADD Midfield/defence, signed 01.07.2019 Midfielder Hayley, 25, has been a Wales international since 2011, with 56 caps to her name. She spent last season with Birmingham City – her second year with the club – and has also represented Bristol Academy, Coventry City and Finnish outfit Kokkola Futis. She started her senior career with Arsenal.

Stoney says: “Hayley is someone I watched from afar last year. So composed, she uses the ball really well and also is great at getting physical in the midfield.”

With 128 Scotland caps (and 58 goals) to her name, Ross brings a wealth of experience to the attack.

An FA Cup finalist with West Ham last term, she previously scored 25 goals in 61 games for Manchester City.

Stoney says: “Jane’s a proven scorer, especially at this level. Her movement is unbelievable, as is her intelligence.”

MARY EARPS Goalkeeper, signed 12.07.2019 The goalkeeper, 26, arrived from Wolfsburg and was part of the England World Cup squad. She has plenty of WSL experience, having lined up for Reading, Bristol Academy (now Bristol City) and Birmingham.

Stoney says: “Mary is a great addition; she’ll strengthen our goalkeeping department as we look to push on.”

LOTTA OKVIST Defender, signed 20.08.2019 The 22-year-old spent 2018/19 with Swedish side Hammarby IF. In 2017 she made a move to the US, returning to her homeland in July last year. As a left-back, she’ll be hoping to step into the shoes of Alex Greenwood.

Stoney says: “As a left-back she has great attacking qualities that will fit well with the way we like to play.”

AURORA MIKALSEN Goalkeeper, signed 07.09.2019 Signed from Kolbotn in her homeland, Mikalsen was called up to Norway’s senior team last year, and she made the move after training with United in Oslo this summer.

Stoney says: “Aurora is a fantastic young talent with a lot of potential and a great personality.”

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CAPTAIN

KATIE ZELEM THE CAPTAIN’S COLUMN

The derby was a proud occasion for us all, but tonight’s first home fixture will be equally challenging, and we need to take our chances when they come...

We couldn’t have asked for a tougher start to life in the WSL, really: Manchester City away at the Etihad last weekend and now Arsenal tonight.

This is what this league is about though, testing ourselves against the best – and having played against Arsenal before, we know what they are about. They are clinical and that’s one of the reasons they are champions.

We will need to limit their chances and take ours when they come if we are to get a result against them.

It was such an incredible honour to lead the team out against City in our first ever WSL match. And what an occasion too, walking out in front of over 31,000 supporters in a Manchester derby.

“I’VE ALWAYS BEEN VOCAL AND I’LL ALWAYS BE HONEST WITH PEOPLE AROUND ME”

I may have the armband on now but I like to think I haven’t changed. This is me as a person, I’ve always been quite vocal and I’ll always be very honest with the people around me. Sometimes people need to hear the truth and sometimes people need the praise they deserve. Captain or not, I’d be the same. The girls know that and what they will get from me as a voice in this squad. To know I’ve got the support of all them just makes it even better.

And we need to hear your voices tonight too. You have always given us such amazing support here at Leigh Sports Village and it’s great to be back here.

We will need you behind us more than ever this season, cheering and driving us on.

Our home games are going to be incredibly important this season. We’ve got a lot of great memories at Leigh and we want to make many more. It’s our pitch and we want teams to fear playing us here, for it to be a fortress.

Hopefully that starts against Arsenal this evening.

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INTERVIEW

LAUREN JAMES PROFILE: Date of birth 29 September 2001 Position Midfield/forward United record: 28 apps (18 starts, 10 sub); 17 goals Previous club: 2017/18, Arsenal International career England U17s, U19s

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INTERVIEW

“FIRST YEAR UP NORTH? I COULDN’T HAVE WISHED

FOR ANY BETTER!” It’s a huge month for Lauren James, who turns 18 as well as taking on her old club tonight. In her first big interview, ‘LJ’ shares her journey from west London to Manchester...

How did you enjoy your summer break, Lauren?

As soon as last season finished I had three weeks off, and I used that to catch up with friends and family I hadn’t seen much of since I moved up north. I then went to Greece with some friends – I hadn’t had a proper holiday in a long time! – before I went to the [Under-19s] Euros in Scotland with England. After that, I had three days off down in London, then straight back into it with United.

Tell us about being part of that England U19s squad [England missed out on a semi-final spot after finishing behind Germany and Spain in Group B]...

It was great to play in a finals of a competition. The last Euros I was involved in was the U13s, but I got injured so didn’t get the chance to play in the finals. So the U19s was a good experience for me, especially with it being an age group above as well.

How much of the senior England team did you watch this summer in the Women’s World Cup? I watched a lot, and I enjoyed it, to see the opportunities I could get myself one day. It made me think about what it takes to get to where they’ve got to, and it’s made me even more hungry to get into England’s senior squad.

How do you look back on your first year as a United player – 27 appearances, 17 goals and a Championship winner’s medal. Could you have hoped for it to have gone so well?

I couldn’t have wished for any better in my first year up here. But until someone says what you’ve done, you don’t realise... I wouldn’t think I’d played that many games and scored that many until you said it. And of course it was great to get silverware. At Arsenal I won the Conti Cup [in 2018], but to get a league winner’s medal was brilliant. ⊲

“I ENJOYED THE WORLD CUP...

WATCHING IT MADE ME EVEN MORE HUNGRY TO GET INTO ENGLAND’S SENIOR SQUAD” Manchester United Women v Arsenal Women 19

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INTERVIEW

Lauren came on as substitute to lead the line in the closing stages against Manchester City

If you had to single out one game and one goal from last season, what would they be?

Everton away [a 3-0 win in the Continental League Cup].

It was a result against a WSL team that gave us all belief.

And I scored with a header too! As for the goal, I’ll say the Leicester one [a left-footed shot from 30 yards in April’s 6-1 win]. As soon as I hit it I was like, ‘woah!’

my [two older] brothers at this massive field at the back of our house, which is an early memory. They both ended up at academies, and I was going to Fulham and Chelsea to watch them both, and I remember I’d spend ages kicking a ball against a fence as I watched them. I gradually got into it more, with my dad and brothers being a big influence.

Last season we saw you lead the line for United, as well as play in a slightly deeper position.

Do you have a preferred role within the team?

I enjoy playing as a ‘10’ the most, but I don’t mind as long as I’m on the pitch. I wanted to be a midfielder when I started out but when I became part of the England set-up they put me on the left wing. That carried on to my club, but then I came to meet Casey and things changed again.

It sounds like they continue to be a big influence...

We’re very close. As well as my two brothers, I have a little sister, who’s three. She’s already kicking a ball around.

My brother Reece was on loan at Wigan last season [from Chelsea], so he was just around the corner. Because he had his own place, Mum and Dad would travel up and stay there every week, and often he’d play on the Saturday, then I’d play on the Sunday, so they could watch us both. It was great, but he’s back at Chelsea now!

You turn 18 later this month. How are you planning on celebrating – a win against Liverpool, perhaps?

I haven’t thought about it, to be honest. Family and friends might come up here, or I might go down to London as we’ll have the Sunday off after the Liverpool game. I’ll have my actual birthday off, which is nice for your 18th!

Do you and Reece chat often, and share advice on establishing yourselves into senior football?

Yeah, we FaceTime every day, but we don’t talk much about football, to be honest. He’ll say little things – things like “make sure you work hard”, but other than that we’re usually just being silly and sharing jokes with each other.

How old were you when you first got into football?

So young I couldn’t say. I remember Dad always coached

Who was your first footballing hero?

Eden Hazard was my first, at a time when I was on the

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INTERVIEW

How beneficial was the trip to Norway to help the new arrivals settle in?

Norway was tough, but a good trip overall, and the first summer tour I’ve been on.

Unless you’re at a top club, it’s rare to go on tour like that, and young age groups will always just come back from holiday and train. It was good to see what teams in Norway were like. Both were very direct, although with them being well into their season and us just coming back, it was hard to take too much from the results.

Having lined up for England at youth level, Lauren’s eyes are firmly set on a first senior cap

“I FIRST MET CASEY WHEN I WAS 14 AND AT ARSENAL. WE HAD A LITTLE CHAT, BUT NOT MUCH AS I WAS QUITE SHY!” wing, but then it was [Luka] Modric. To be honest, I didn’t watch much women’s football when I was young, mainly because it was so much harder to do so on TV. You’d hear about Marta with Brazil, and Kelly Smith with England, but all my heroes then were men.

Did you excel at any other sports at school?

It was athletics or football – I was good at 100 metres – but it was only ever going to be football, all day long. I’m glad I took the football path.

How impressed have you been with what you’ve seen of United’s summer signings?

They’ve all fitted in really well, bringing experience and extra leadership to the squad. We’re still a young group so it’s great to see them share the situations they’ve been in with the rest of us.

Tonight we start our home campaign with a home match against your former club. Tell us a bit about your time at Arsenal...

I went to Arsenal from Chelsea aged 13. At 14 I got to train with the first team a couple of times, which is where I first met Casey. We had a little chat, but not much. I was quite a shy person so I wouldn’t just go and chat to her! I then played U17s for one season, won the FA Cup at that level, and I really enjoyed that season, but then the age groups changed and as I wasn’t yet 16 I couldn’t push up to the reserves, so I went down to my own age group, which was less challenging. I found it hard to get through that season and had to challenge myself – I’d try to score in every game I played – and then when I hit 16 I joined the first team. I made my senior debut away to Everton [Lauren become the second-youngest player in Arsenal Women’s history] and it was a real learning curve being a young player in such a good squad. But it got to the point where I thought I needed to play more regularly, and then United formed a team. I thought it could be a great opportunity, and then Casey came and spoke to me.

It must have been a big decision to make the move 200 miles north to Manchester at the age of 16...

I’ve always wanted to get out of London, Reece was close by to be honest. It’s nice to get back at Wigan last season, and see everyone but when you’re where he was the club’s playing football, there are so ⊲ Player of the Year

Manchester United Women v Arsenal Women 21

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09/09/2019 21:53

The best stories are yet to be written The world is watching. The fans are waiting. The players are ready. The new Barclays FA Women’s Super League season is here, and it’s all to play for.

Creating opportunities with football. #AllToPlayFor

BarclaysFootball

@BarclaysFooty

Barclays Bank UK PLC. 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 number 9740322. Registered office: 1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP.

INTERVIEW

Laid-back Lauren is usually smiling, especially when there’s a football in sight

many distractions there, so when the option came to leave, I thought, ‘It’s good to get out, I need to.’ Being away has helped me focus, and when I get to see my loved ones I appreciate that time more. I passed my driving test in November, too, which has given me so much more freedom to get back down there.

Getting her hands on the League Cup trophy in March 2018 while at Arsenal

“BEING AWAY FROM LONDON HAS HELPED ME FOCUS, AND WHEN I DO SEE MY LOVED ONES I APPRECIATE THAT TIME MORE”

What are your memories of facing Arsenal last season for United in the Continental League Cup...

Going into that game, it was really nerve-wracking – my old club, the game being on TV, wanting to prove you can play at that level, but I was fine once the game started. I thought we did really well. They had the edge and won 2-1, but we did so well to get that far in the competition.

They were the top team in the WSL last season, and this game will be just as tough. I think the WSL could be interesting this season, though, as there’s been a real variation of results in pre-season. I can’t wait.

I’m so laid-back! [Smiles] I’ve always been like this, with not a lot of things bothering me. Away from football I like to play my PS4 – FIFA or Fortnite – or if a game’s on, I’m always checking my phone to see what the scores are. I just love watching football – La Liga, Bundesliga, I’ll watch anything really – and I love my music too. In the gym, in the car, at home at night, as soon as I wake up.

I’m into Future and Fredo at the moment. Aside from that... sleeping, eating, a bit of shopping at the Trafford Centre!

You always seem to be very calm on the pitch – even with your goal celebrations! Are you just as laid-back away from the game, and how do you relax when you’re not kicking a football?

Do you often recognised there?

Yeah, every trip I go! I went the other day to change my hairstyle, and someone even recognised me then!

I don’t mind, though. I’m getting used to it! [Laughs].

Manchester United Women v Arsenal Women 23

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09/09/2019 21:53

THESE WILDCATS

JUST LOVE

TO PLAY SSE Wildcats provide girls aged 5-11 the opportunity to have fun, make friends and play football.

With over 1,000 centres nationwide, find a centre near you and join the fun!

Find your nearest centre at

TheFA.com/SSEWildcats

KIDS’ QUIZ

FRED’S FAN Z ON E Tonight the Reds’ mascot serves up five tricky questions to answer. Good luck!

HA LF -TI M E QU I Z! (Answers at foot of page)

1

Name the defender who scored our last goal of the 2018/19 campaign (left pic).

2

Can you name the six different nationalities within this season’s United Women squad?

3

Which current Red got on the scoresheet at this summer’s Women’s World Cup?

4

This season we’ll face a team known as ‘the Vixens’ (right pic) in the WSL. Name the club!

5

Which new member of our squad will celebrate her 30th birthday this week?

Answers: 1. Amy Turner; 2. English, Dutch, Norwegian, Scottish, Swedish, Welsh; 3. Jackie Groenen; 4. Bristol City; 5. Jane Ross

Manchester United Women v Arsenal Women 25

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09/09/2019 21:53

FAN PHOTOS

RE DS ’ GA LL ERY

Send your top pictures to MUWomenfamily@manutd.co.uk

#18 A big hello to 16-year-old Laura, pictured with her footballing idol Leah at April’s Crystal Palace match.

Lacey, aged 9, loves Kirsty Smith and says she’s inspired her to play football and try hard in other sports.

TAKE FIVE WITH...

KIRSTY HANSON On my TV...

Power on Netflix.

I’m so hooked!

What I’m driving...

Mercedes A-Class. It has great speakers to play music at full blast.

This is Sienna alongside her best friend, with Lauren joining them and a classic photobomb from Shiv!

Season ticket holders and best pals Olivia and Lottie are so excited for the start of our home campaign!

Last holiday...

Paphos, Cyprus. It was so, so hot! I always get a great tan on holiday.

No.1 outfit...

I live in Adidas shorts and T-shirt, even when it’s raining. It’s just so comfy!

What I’m reading...

Casey’s Reds have really got Robyn into football, while Charlie follows the girls up and down the country.

Young Katie has received some sound advice from Ella Toone – could she too be a future star for the Reds?

The Shed Method by performance coach Sara Milne Row. It keeps my brain working now I’ve finished university.

26 Manchester United Women v Arsenal Women

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09/09/2019 21:53

DO WNLOAD THE ADIDAS APP NO W

DO WNLOAD THE ADIDAS APP NO W © 2019 adi das AG 2019 adi das AG

30520_art_adidas_MUFC_Hardwired_United 1 30520_art_adidas_MUFC_Hardwired_United Review_Advert_210x240mm.indd Review_Advert_210x240mm.indd 1

29/07/2019 15:

PLAYER PROFILES

MEET THE 2019/20 SQUAD The key info on Casey Stoney’s charges – with our no.2 in the spotlight tonight

27

1

13

22

SIOBHAN CHAMBERLAIN

EMILY RAMSEY

FRAN BENTLEY

Position Goalkeeper DOB 15/8/1983 Nationality English

Position Goalkeeper DOB 16/11/2000 Nationality English

Position Goalkeeper DOB 26/6/2001 Nationality English

15

2

MARY EARPS

AURORA MIKALSEN

MARTHA HARRIS

Position Goalkeeper DOB 7/3/1993 Nationality English

Position Goalkeeper DOB 21/3/1996 Nationality Norwegian

Position Full-back DOB 19/8/1994 Nationality English

The inaugural winner of the PFA Women’s Young Player of the Year award in 2014, Martha – then in her first term at Liverpool after leaving hometown club Lincoln Ladies – won the WSL in the same year. She’s been hugely dependable at right-back since joining United, playing 22 times in 2018/19 – memorably scoring her first goal for the club away to Millwall back in April.

3

4

LOTTA OKVIST

AMY TURNER

ABBIE McMANUS

KIRSTY SMITH

Position Centre-back DOB 4/7/1991 Nationality English

Position Centre-back DOB 14/1/1993 Nationality English

Position Full-back DOB 6/1/1994 Nationality Scottish

Position Full-back DOB 17/2/1997 Nationality Swedish

5

20

28 Manchester United Women v Arsenal Women

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10/09/2019 11:45

PLAYER PROFILES

21

8

MILLIE TURNER

MOLLIE GREEN

KATIE ZELEM

HAYLEY LADD

Position Centre-back DOB 7/7/1996 Nationality English

Position Midfield DOB 4/8/1997 Nationality English

Position Midfield DOB 20/1/1996 Nationality English

Position Mid/defence DOB 6/10/1993 Nationality Welsh

14

7

10

9

12

11

JACKIE GROENEN

ELLA TOONE

JESSICA SIGSWORTH

LEAH GALTON

Position Midfield DOB 17/12/1994 Nationality Dutch

Position Mid/forward DOB 2/9/1999 Nationality English

Position Forward DOB 13/10/1994 Nationality English

Position Winger DOB 24/5/1994 Nationality English

16

17

18

19

LAUREN JAMES

LIZZIE ARNOT

KIRSTY HANSON

JANE ROSS

Position Mid/forward DOB 29/9/2001 Nationality English

Position Winger DOB 1/3/1996 Nationality Scottish

Position Winger DOB 17/4/1998 Nationality Scottish

Position Forward DOB 18/9/1989 Nationality Scottish

Manchester United Women v Arsenal Women 29

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10/09/2019 11:45

OPPOSITION

Summer signing Roord (right of picture) lines up alongside Katie McCabe and dangerous forward Miedema

TONIGHT’S VISITORS

ARSENAL

The Gunners have made the perfect start to their WSL defence, with the new recruits settling in well alongside the team’s many World Cup stars...

Last season saw Arsenal end a seven-year wait for a league title – and they did it in style, finishing seven points clear of runners-up Manchester City.

The north Londoners will expect to be pushed harder this season, however, with their main rivals strengthening and the overall standard of the division likely to improve.

Joe Montemurro’s side kicked off their title defence with a 2-1 win at home to West Ham eight days ago, Beth Mead and debutant Jill Roord getting the goals at Meadow Park – their Hertfordshire home ground where United narrowly lost in last term’s League Cup semi-final.

Montemurro has been busy in the summer transfer window, focusing on improving the defensive side of his squad, with Scottish international centre-back Jennifer Beattie coming in from Manchester City, six years after she left Arsenal to play in France. The boss also launched a raid on Bayern Munich, with a triple move for defender

Leonie Maier, midfielder Roord and goalkeeper Manuela Zinsberger – the latter no doubt taking confidence from pulling off a crucial late save on her debut to deny West Ham a leveller, following a nervy start between the sticks.

BEWARE THE DUTCH ATTACK Arsenal’s success last term was built around the potency of their attacking unit, with Dutch international pair Danielle van de Donk and Vivianne Miedema the star names for the champions. Miedema’s ability to lead the line with her

KEEPER ZINSBERGER WILL TAKE CONFIDENCE FROM A CRUCIAL LATE SAVE ON HER DEBUT

30 Manchester United Women v Arsenal Women

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10/09/2019 07:17

KE

OPPOSITION

pace and power propelled the Gunners on to glory in 2018/19, the 23-year old striker breaking the WSL scoring record with 22 goals.

She then carried her form into the World Cup, with three goals en route to the final with the Netherlands. She did miss their WSL opener with a tight hamstring, however, and as such is not certain to feature against United tonight.

Alongside Miedema, for club and country, is van de Donk, the ex-PSV schemer providing much of the creativity close to the opposition box.

Montemurro alters between playing van de Donk wide-right of a front three, or in a more orthodox no.10 role, depending on the opposition. The 28-year-old van de Donk has an impressive ability to pick a pass, while her driving runs forward regularly cause havoc in the final third as she opens up space for her team-mates.

Whether it’s Miedema or Mead spearheading the attack tonight, United’s defence will need to stay alert against a team that found the net 70 times in 20 WSL fixtures last season.

New Austrian keeper Zinsberger was the late hero against West Ham

30_31_oppo.CGIM (updated).indd 5

ONE TO WATCH LEAH WILLIAMSON

THE MANAGER JOE MONTEMURRO

Arsenal’s front players tend to get the most plaudits, but the Gunners also had the tightest defence in the WSL last season, with Williamson playing in 19 of their 20 games. Milton Keynes-born Leah only turned 22 in March, but having been with Arsenal since 2014, the one-club player has the presence of a centre-back who’s been around a lot longer.

For the last two seasons she’s formed a rock-solid partnership with Republic of Ireland international Louise Quinn, the pair providing real balance at the back. Always calm on the ball, Leah has also lined up for the club in midfield.

Recruited in November 2017 having spent over a decade in his native Australia – where he led Melbourne City to Grand Final success in 2016 – the unassuming Montemurro has made steady progress at Arsenal, the club he’s supported since the age of seven. A third-place finish in his first campaign came alongside silverware in the League Cup, but it was last term when his measured management really began to pay off. The league triumph saw Montemurro named WSL Manager of the Year, while in July he was nominated for FIFA’s World Women’s Coach of the Year award.

10/09/2019 07:17

DON’T MISS A GAME

THIS SEASON BUY TICKETS: MANUTD.COM/MUWTICKETS

STATISTICS

TABLES & PLAYER STATISTICS

FA WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE TABLE (Yesterday’s WSL results not included)

Teams

P

W D L GD Pts

APPEARANCES/GOALS 2019/20

Player

League

FA Cup

League Cup

Total

App Gls App Gls App Gls App Gls

Mary Earps

1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

Leah Galton

1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

Jackie Groenen

1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

Kirsty Hanson

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

Lauren James

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

Hayley Ladd

1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

Abbie McManus

1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

Lotta Okvist

1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

Jane Ross

1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

1 Arsenal

1 1 0 0 1 3

Jess Sigsworth

1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

2 Chelsea

1 1 0 0 1 3

Ella Toone

1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

3 Everton

1 1 0 0 1 3

Amy Turner

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

4 Manchester City 1 1 0 0 1 3

Millie Turner

1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

5 Reading

1 1 0 0 1 3

Katie Zelem

1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

6 Brighton

1 0 1 0 0 1

7 Bristol City

1 0 1 0 0 1

8 West Ham United 1 0 0 1 -1 0 9 Birmingham City 1 0 0 1 -1 0 10 Liverpool

1 0 0 1 -1 0

11 Manchester United 1 0 0 1 -1 0 12 Tottenham Hotspur 1 0 0 1 -1 0

CONTINENTAL LEAGUE CUP GROUP C THIRTY GAMES FOR Teams P W D L GD Pts 1 Birmingham City 0 0 0 0 TURNER AND TOONE 0 0

UNITED CAREER APPEARANCES/GOALS

Player

App Gls App Gls App Gls App Gls

League

FA Cup

League Cup

Total

2 Everton

0 0 0 0 0 0

Lizzie Arnot

12(5) 6 1(1) 0 3(2) 1 16(8) 7

3 Leicester City

0 0 0 0 0 0

Fran Bentley

0(1) 0 0(1) 0 0 0 0(2) 0

4 Manchester City 0 0 0 0 0 0

Siobhan Chamberlain 18 0 3 0 6 0 27 0

5 Manchester United 0 0 0 0 0 0

Mary Earps

1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

Leah Galton

11(4) 3 1(1) 0 3(2) 1 15(7) 4

Mollie Green

14(4) 13 3 1 6 2 23(4) 16

Jackie Groenen

Our WSL opener at Manchester City nine days ago saw Millie Turner and Ella Toone become the first players to reach 30 appearances for the Reds.

Indeed, the pair have featured in all our competitive fixtures since United Women were formed last year, with Millie playing every minute of every game. Ella, meanwhile, has started 20 matches, coming off the bench 10 times – finding the opposition net an impressive 15 times along the way.

1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

Kirsty Hanson

12(6) 5 2(1) 0 3(3) 0 17(10) 5

Martha Harris

12(3) 1

Lauren James

12(7) 14 0(3) 2 6 1 18(10) 17

3 0 4 0 19(3) 1

Hayley Ladd

1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

Abbie McManus

1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

Lotta Okvist

1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

Emily Ramsey

2 0 0(1) 0 0 0 2(1) 0

Jane Ross

1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

Jess Sigsworth 16(4) 17 3 0 6 1 25(4) 18 Kirsty Smith

13(3) 0 1(1) 0 5 0 19(4) 0

Ella Toone

17(4) 14 3 1 0(6) 0 20(10) 15

Amy Turner

16 (1) 2

2

0

6

0 24 (1) 2

Millie Turner

21 2 3 0 6 0 30 2

Katie Zelem

19 10 2 0 6 1 27 11

Manchester United Women v Arsenal Women 33

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10/09/2019 09:12

LINE-UP

ATTENDANCE

SCORE

VENUE

KICK-OFF

OPPOSITION

DATE

FIXTURES & LINE-UPS

SEPTEMBER AUGUST WSL Sat 7

Manchester City

3pm

A

0-1

31,213 Earps

Ladd

McManus

M Turner

Okvist

Gro

WSL Mon 16 Arsenal 7.30pm H WSL Sat 28

Liverpool

12pm

H

OCTOBER WSL Sun 13

Tottenham Hotspur

12.30pm A

CC

Manchester City

12pm

H

Reading

12pm

H

Sun 20

WSL Sun 27

NOVEMBER CC

Everton

12.30pm A

WSL Sun 17

Sun 3

Chelsea

2pm

A

CC

Leicester City

7.30pm

H

Brighton

12pm

H

WSL Sun 1

West Ham United

3pm

A

WSL Sun 8

Everton

12pm

H

CC

Birmingham City

7.30pm

A

Birmingham City

2pm

A

WSL Sun 5

Bristol City

12pm

H

WSL Sun 12

Liverpool

12pm

A

Thu 21

WSL Sun 24

DECEMBER

Wed 11

WSL Sun 15

JANUARY

CC 15/16 Quarter-final

WSL Sun 19

Tottenham Hotspur

H

FA

Round four

CC 29/30 Semi-final

Sun 26

12pm

FEBRUARY WSL Sun 2

Reading

2pm

A

WSL Sun 9

Chelsea

12pm

H

WSL Wed 12

Brighton

7.45pm

A

FA

Round five

Sun 16

WSL Sun 23

Everton

CC

Final

Sat 29

12.30pm A N

MARCH Quarter-final

WSL Sun 22

West Ham United

12pm

H

WSL Sun 29

Manchester City

12pm

H

WSL Sun 5

Arsenal

2pm

A

FA

Semi-final

Bristol City

A

FA

Sun 15

APRIL Sun 19

WSL Sun 26

3pm

MAY FA

Sat 9

WSL Sat 16

Final

N

Birmingham City

H

CONTACT US via email

34_35 season stats.CGIM.indd 4 West Ham United

TBC

Message and picture requests: MUWomenfamily@manutd.co.uk

Ticket information: Call 0161 868 8000 or visit ManUtd.com/Tickets

09/09/2019 22:01

WSL - Women’s Super League

Scorers Bold

First sub

CC - FA Continental League Cup

Penalty •

Second sub

FA - Women’s FA Cup

x Own goal

Third sub

SUBS USED

KEY:

* after extra-time

Groenen

Zelem

Toone

Sigsworth

Ross

Galton

A Turner

Hanson

James

FOLLOW US online

34_35 season stats.CGIM.indd 5

Facebook: manutdwomen

Twitter: @manutdwomen

YouTube: /ManUtd

Instagram: @manutdwomen

09/09/2019 22:02

MANCHESTER UNITED ­WOMEN

Siobhan CHAMBERLAIN (GK) Martha HARRIS Lotta OKVIST Amy TURNER Abbie McMANUS Ella TOONE Mollie GREEN Jessica SIGSWORTH Katie ZELEM Leah GALTON Hayley LADD Emily RAMSEY (GK) Jackie GROENEN Aurora MIKALSEN (GK) Lauren JAMES Lizzie ARNOT Kirsty HANSON Jane ROSS Kirsty SMITH Millie TURNER Fran BENTLEY (GK) Mary EARPS (GK)

01_36_MUW Covers.CGIM.indd 5 West Ham United

ARSENAL WOMEN 1 2 3 4 5 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 27

1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 13 14 15 16 17 18 20 21 22 23 26 27 28

Manuela ZINSBERGER (GK) Katrine VEJE Emma MITCHELL Jennifer BEATTIE Leah WILLIAMSON Danielle VAN DE DONK Jordan NOBBS Danielle CARTER Kim LITTLE Vivianne MIEDEMA Lia WALTI Jill ROORD Katie McCABE Louise QUINN Lisa EVANS Pauline PEYRAUD-MAGNIN (GK) Leonie MAIER Tabea KEMME Viktoria SCHNADERBECK Beth MEAD Ruby GRANT Melisa FILIS Silvana FLORES

09/09/2019 21:48