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A full A-Z of the Women's Super League (2020/21) A-Z of the WSL Wednesday, 28 October 2020 By Charlotte Stacey A full A-Z of the Women's Super League (2020/21) Catherine Ivill Tnners are gunning for that top spot. A is for Aston Villa Newly promoted Aston Villa have a tall order establishing themselves in their inaugural year in the top division. Villa gained promotion from the Championship after being unbeaten all season, and although the step up is a vast one, the Villans are not to be written off too soon. In their opener against Manchester City, Villa defended exceptionally well and kept City on their toes. Although they ultimately conceded two goals, they were by no means, outplayed. B is for Birmingham City Birmingham City needed a shake up after finding themselves close to relegation last season. Cue, Carla Ward. The Blue’s new manager has certainly taken the bull by the horns and breathed a fresh lease of life into the previously struggling side. Already Birmingham have impressed with their solid defensive work, as well as some outstanding individual performances, notably from newly acquired defender Rachel Corsie, midfielder Christine Murray and forward Claudia Walker. B is for Brighton & Hove Albion Former England manager, Hope Powell, heads up Brighton in her third year at the helm. After ending the 2019-2020 season in the latter half of the table, the Seagulls will be looking to climb to a middle position. True to this ethos, Brighton have made an admirable start, bagging a win and two draws from their first five games. Powell is developing a dangerous looking team, additions such as the technically gifted Denise O’Sullivan, bringing an impactful strength to the side this season. B is for Bristol City Tanya Oxtoby’s Bristol City have work to do to keep them out of the relegation zone this season. The Robins finished in tenth place last year, and will be looking to achieve the same this time round. Although they can find themselves on the back end of some big score lines, Bristol are capable of producing some very good play, as seen in their early match against Arsenal, in which they contained the Gunners with solidarity and even managed to sink a goal past Manuela Zinsberger. The Robins’ keeper Sophie Baggaley is a rising talent and is certainly one to keep your eye on. C is for Chelsea The reigning champions not only won last year’s league title, but also the Continental Cup and the reinstated Community Shield. The London Blues have brought in leading names across the year to defend their growing trophy cabinet. The signings of Sam Kerr, Melanie Leupolz, Niamh Charles and Pernille Harder have taken the staggering depth of Emma Hayes’ squad to a whole new level of primacy. Chelsea flaunt what is a rather pleasant dilemma, having at least two players for each position at any one time. In short, what Hayes is building is arguably, one of the best sides in the world The 2020-21 season is now well and truly underway, and although we may not be able to get up close and personal to the action this time round, there is still plenty to keep us excited in what is quite possibly, the biggest year of the league so far. So, let us steer you toward key players, pioneers and points, as we run you through a full A to Z of the Women’s Super League. A is for Arsenal: The North London giants have long dominated in the world of women’s football and have hordes of silverware to their name. The Gunners treasures include 3 WSL titles, 12 Premier League National Division titles, 5 Continental Cups, a mammoth 14 FA Cups and they also carry the honour of being the only English side to have ever won the UEFA Champions League. Arsenal have certainly started their season with a bang; big score lines, numerous hat tricks, and Vivianne Miedema’s history making 50th goal all conclude that there is no doubt, Joe Montemurro’s Gunners are gunning for that top spot. A is for Aston Villa: Newly promoted Aston Villa have a tall order establishing themselves in their inaugural year in the top division. Villa gained promotion from the Championship after being unbeaten all season, and although the step up is a vast one, the Villans are not to be written off too soon. In their opener against Manchester City, Villa defended exceptionally well and kept City on their toes. Although they ultimately conceded two goals, they were by no means, outplayed. B is for Birmingham City: Birmingham City needed a shake up after finding themselves close to relegation last season. Cue, Carla Ward. The Blue’s new manager has certainly taken the bull by the horns and breathed a fresh lease of life into the previously struggling side. Already Birmingham have impressed with their solid defensive work, as well as some outstanding individual performances, notably from newly acquired defender Rachel Corsie, midfielder Christine Murray and forward Claudia Walker. B is for Brighton & Hove Albion: Former England manager, Hope Powell, heads up Brighton in her third year at the helm. After ending the 2019-2020 season in the latter half of the table, the Seagulls will be looking to climb to a middle position. True to this ethos, Brighton have made an admirable start, bagging a win and two draws from their first five games. Powell is developing a dangerous looking team, additions such as the technically gifted Denise O’Sullivan, bringing an impactful strength to the side this season. B is for Bristol City: Tanya Oxtoby’s Bristol City have work to do to keep them out of the relegation zone this season. The Robins finished in tenth place last year, and will be looking to achieve the same this time round. Although they can find themselves on the back end of some big score lines, Bristol are capable of producing some very good play, as seen in their early match against Arsenal, in which they contained the Gunners with solidarity and even managed to sink a goal past Manuela Zinsberger. The Robins’ keeper Sophie Baggaley is a rising talent and is certainly one to keep your eye on. C is for Chelsea: The reigning champions not only won last year’s league title, but also the Continental Cup and the reinstated Community Shield. The London Blues have brought in leading names across the year to defend their growing trophy cabinet. The signings of Sam Kerr, Melanie Leupolz, Niamh Charles and Pernille Harder have taken the staggering depth of Emma Hayes’ squad to a whole new level of primacy. Chelsea flaunt what is a rather pleasant dilemma, having at least two players for each position at any one time. In short, what Hayes is building is arguably, one of the best sides in the world. D is for Gemma Davies: Aston Villa’s Gemma Davies, leads her team into the WSL as the league’s youngest manager. At just 28, Davies heads up the Villans in top tier after an outstanding season in the Championship. Davies has acquired former Chelsea defender Anita Asante to add to her ranks, which already include former WSL players Emma Follis and Chloe Arthur. Davies has a tough stint ahead of her, but after such a remarkable run last year, there is no doubt that she is up to the job. E is for Everton: Everton have been the surprise of the season so far, seriously challenging for a higher position in the table after finishing a reputable sixth last year. Willie Kirk’s side have attacked the early part of the season with an appetite that looks to threaten the leagues typically expected outcome. Australia’s Hayley Raso, Scotland’s Claire Emslie and France’s Valérie Gauvin have brought with them an added energy and flair, making the Toffee’s all the more exciting to watch. F is for Fara Williams MBE: Reading’s anchor, Fara Williams, is one of the league’s, and the country’s, most experienced players. She is the Lionesses most capped player of all time, having made 172 appearances so far, and is well on her way to achieving the same in the domestic league. The midfielder is renowned for her passing accuracy and merciless free kicks. Williams’ name should be known far and wide; she is an endless pioneer of the women’s game, her continued resilience and courage an inspiration to many. G is for Goalkeeping: Perhaps sometimes a little over looked for their efforts, goalkeepers can often take the brunt of a bad day. Yet undeterred by such woes, the WSL boasts some rather fine work between the posts. Whether it is the developing gifts of Manchester City’s Ellie Roebuck, Birmingham City’s Hannah Hampton, Bristol City’s Sophie Baggaley or Aston Villa’s Sian Rogers; the growing expertise of Arsenal’s Manuela Zinsberger, Reading's Grace Maloney, Tottenham’s Becky Spencer or Manchester United’s Mary Earps; the experience of Chelsea duo Ann-Katrin Berger and Carly Telford; or City’s trusted Karen Bardsley; there is never a shortage of goalkeeping talent on display. H is for Lauren Hemp: Manchester City forward, Lauren Hemp, had a magnificent season last year, so much so that she received her first senior call-up and subsequent debut for the Lionesses. Hemp was a standout player in England’s SheBelieves campaign, in which she ran rings around a certain World Cup winning side. With an instinct that sees her attack games with a proficiency, vigour and pace that is incomprehensible at times, Hemp is most certainly one to watch. I is for Sophie Ingle: Wales captain, Sophie Ingle, is one that doesn’t necessarily jump out at you, yet the Chelsea midfielder is one of the league’s most accomplished players. Ingle is calm, she is collected and she does her job with such little fuss that sometimes one neglects to remember just how important she is. Ingle safeguards Chelsea, quietly dictating from the middle. But just to make sure we’re not resting easy, every now and again, she’ll treat us to a piece of Ingle magic and net an absolute screamer. J is for Ji So-Yun: Chelsea’s Ji So-Yun is quite simply a force to be reckoned with. Her movement, vision and creativity are astonishing, and when given the freedom to roam there is no stopping her. The midfielder effortlessly makes the most challenging of scenarios seem positively easy to navigate. To compare her to another is difficult, but it would be fair to say that, although they are rare, Ji’s bad days are still overtly favourable by anybody else’s standard’s. K is for Kim Little: Arsenal captain, Kim Little, is a player that needs no introduction. Often regarded as one of the most difficult players to come up against, Arsenal’s play is elevated just that little (pardon the pun!) bit further when she is on the field. Not the most vocal of leaders, Little instead leads by example, letting her feet do the talking. Her exemplary passing ability and movement concur with her ever-present vision, causing her to be one of the league’s most dangerous playmakers. L is for Lucy Bronze: England defender Lucy Bronze is widely, and rightfully, considered as one of the best right backs in the world. Bronze has returned to the WSL with former club Manchester City after a three-year spell with French Champions Olympique Lyonnais. Bronze’s time at Lyon was nothing short of remarkable, and she ended her time there as the only English player in history to have won three consecutive Champions League titles. The fullback is perilous in every game she plays. M is for Manchester City: Finishing in second place last season, Manchester City are aiming high, playing to keep their place in the “top three” after dominance in the past few years. New boss, Gareth Taylor inherited a fine side from the recently departed Nick Cushing, including no less than twelve Lionesses. City managed to secure a number of big names in their transfer window, including defender Lucy Bronze, USA midfielders Sam Mewis and Rose Lavelle and Everton’s star striker, Chloe Kelly. Mewis and Kelly, in particular, have caused problems for oppositions and look to be very influential indeed. M is for Manchester United: Casey Stoney’s Red Devil’s certainly look to mean business this year. After respectably finishing in fourth place last season, United’s six incredibly strong summer signings could very well see them begin to give the “top three” a run for their money. As recruitment goes, Stoney has pulled out all the stops, signing Spanish defender Ona Battle, German forward Ivana Fuso, Lionesses Lucy Staniforth and Alessia Russo, as well as world champions Tobin Heath and Christen Press. N is for Ashleigh Neville: Yes, there is more than one Neville in English women’s football. Whilst Phil Neville closes out his tenure with the Lionesses, defender Ashleigh Neville continues to build a solid reputation on the pitch with the Lilywhites. The fullback is a principal figure in Tottenham’s defence. Sprightly runs, clever interceptions and a developing capability of keeping the most devilish of oppositions contained means she is sure to catch your eye. O is for Overseas Talent: The WSL has seen an influx of overseas talent over the past couple of years; players have hailed from every corner of the globe to join the top tier of English football, which speaks volumes as to the growing quality of the league. Amongst these are Australia’s Sam Kerr, Alanna Kennedy, Emily van Egmond, Cailtin Foord, Lydia Williams, and Hayley Raso; Switzerland’s Lia Wälti, Alisha Lehmann and Malin Gut; Dutch powerhouses Vivianne Miedema, Daniëlle van de Donk, Inessa Kaagman, Siri Worm, Danique Kerkdijk, Jackie Groenen and Jill Roord; Norwegian stars Maren Mjelde, Aurora Mikalsen, Maria Thorisdottir, Ingrid Moe Wold, Cecile Redisch and Guro Reiten; Denmark’s finest, Pernille Harder, Stine Larsen and Nicoline Sørensen; Sweden’s Madgalena Eriksson, Lotta Okvist, Nor Mustafa and Jonna Andersson; New Zealand’s Ria Percival and Rebekah Scott, as well as sharp Canadians, Shelina Zadorsky, Adriana Leon and Janine Beckie. With these players enhancing the already abundant talent from the four home nations, the WSL is the place to be. P is for Pernille Harder: Danish captain, Pernille Harder, made history as the most expensive signing in women’s football ever, with a transfer fee of a suspected €300,000 in her move to Chelsea from German Champions, Wolfsburg, in the summer. Striker, Harder, known for her positional excellence and notable finish, comes to the English league with a success of victories under her belt, including four Bundesliga titles. The 27-year-old was also named as UEFA’s Player of the Year in 2018, and has been most recently won Germany’s Women’s Footballer of the Year. Q is for Quality: There is often a lot of comparison between the men’s and women’s game, typically with the onus of the difference in “quality”. Whilst there will always be differences of opinion on this, the Women’s Super League unequivocally has a tremendous amount of “quality” running though it. World class players from across the globe, World Cup winners, captains of the four home nations, developing youth, intensifying competition; it’s all there for the taking. R is for Reading: With a simmering pool of experience in their ranks, Reading are not to be underestimated. Welsh midfielder Jess Fishlock, England’s Fara Williams, Scotland’s stout defender Emma Mitchell, the recently recovered Danielle Carter and captain Natasha Harding at the very core of the maturing side. The knowledge these players bring to Kelly Chambers’ squad should certainly not be overlooked this season. S is for Sandy MacIver: Everton’s Sandy MacIver, is one of the league’s most exciting goalkeeping prospects, and she looks ready to prove herself the same with England. Since returning to the WSL in January, the 22-year-old has been one of the Toffee’s stand out players. Her critical decisiveness has been hugely influential in Everton’s impressive start to the season thus far. Duly noted by Lionesses boss Phil Neville, MacIver was called up to this year’s SheBelieves Cup, as well as the recent consecutive training camps, marking her as a future England staple. T is for Tottenham Hotspur: Head Coaches, Karen Hills and Juan Amos, had an active transfer window, bringing in the experience of Rachel Williams and Kerys Harrop from Birmingham City, as well as bagging USWNT forward, Alex Morgan, from NWSL side, Orlando Pride. Spurs finished in 7th place last season and will be looking for more of the same this time round. The early fixtures haven’t been particularly kind to the Lilywhites, but there is still plenty of football left to play. Big performances from Lucia Leon, Gemma Davison and Becky Spencer look set to continue as Spurs head into their upcoming games. U is for USA: Five, yes, FIVE, World Cup winning USWNT players have made the move across the pond. Four have landed either side of Manchester and the other in North London. Forwards, Tobin Heath and Christen Press have bolstered Manchester United’s attacking ranks, making them all the more dangerous. Whereas Sam Mewis and Rose Lavelle have opted for a Manchester blue, completing City’s finely-tuned set of midfield maestros. USWNT captain and new Mum, Alex Morgan, has joined Tottenham Hotspur just five months after giving birth, her hotly anticipated debut will hopefully soon be upon us. V is for Vivianne Miedema: Arsenal’s Vivianne Miedema is one of the greatest strikers in the world; a statement that on the face of it may seem a little exaggerated, but one that is absolutely true. The Dutch forwards efforts often make the extraordinary seem anything but. She recently became the league’s all-time top goalscorer reaching 50 goals in 50 games, significantly succeeding Nikita Parris’ 50 in 110 games by some margin. Miedema has also achieved the same feat with her country, she is Holland’s leading goalscorer in both the men’s and women’s sides. W is for West Ham: Matt Beard’s West Ham ended last season in 8th place, four points behind fellow London club Tottenham Hotspur. The Iron’s first few games have been tough, the table perhaps not baring a true reflection of their performances thus far. Yet, with steadfast captain Gilly Flaherty on hand, as well as Swiss dynamo, Alisha Lehmann, and Houston Dash captain, Rachel Daly, bringing an attacking fire power, the Irons will surely shake themselves into gear before long. X is for Ex-Players: As the league grows, so does the level of coverage surrounding it. Fortunately, the WSL is on its way to obtaining the punditry and commentary it so deserves. Much of this comes in the form of ex-players who use their first-hand knowledge to provide in-depth analysis, justified criticism and honest reviews. Alex Scott, Karen Carney, Siobhan Chamberlain, Rachel Brown-Finnis, Rachel Yankey and Jane Ludlow are amongst those offering their expertise, spearheading the mainstream broadcasting of the game in the right direction. Y is for Youngsters: Coursing through the league is a throng of budding young talent, each ripening with every match played. Manchester City’s Chloe Kelly, Esme Morgan and Ellie Roebuck; Manchester United’s Ella Toone and star-in-waiting, Lauren James; West Ham’s Alisha Lehmann and Grace Fisk; Brighton’s Maya Le Tissier; Birmingham’s Jamie-Lee Naiper and Hannah Hampton, and Chelsea forward Niamh Charles are all sure to impress. Z is for Katie Zelem: Manchester United captain, Katie Zelem, is fast proving herself as the perfect leader to drive Casey Stoney’s Red Devil’s to the next level. The midfielder sits at the heart of United, often dictating the pace and flow of play, and she is also pretty handy with a set piece as well. Zelem has kicked off her season in style. Not only did she manage to grab Player of the Match in United’s opener against champions Chelsea, but her growing leadership and pinpoint accuracy have led to her first senior call-ups with the Lionesses.

Get to know every member of the current Lionesses squad. Lionesses Squad Maya Le Tissier Youngster Maya Le Tissier has slotted straight into Manchester United’s backline in what has been their most successful season to date. It is difficult to pinpoint exactly what it is that makes Le Tissier one of the country’s most exciting young talents, but upon observation it quickly becomes clear that the defender will be a feature in the national team for years to come. Primarily positioned as a centre-back, twenty-year-old Le Tissier plays with a wisdom that keeps her team in check. She can be physical when the time calls for it, but where Le Tissier really shines is with her awareness. The defender has an acute understanding of her surroundings meaning she approaches situations with good decision and rationality. This also aids itself to favourable defensive positioning as well as optimal passing routes to both settle play and trigger build-up. Photograph courtesy of the FA.

Get to know every member of the current Lionesses squad. Lionesses Squad Jess Park Attacking midfielder Jess Park is about as lively as they come. With incredible pace and dribbling skills, Park can be a real handful to keep a hold of. This season Park has come to the forefront in her spell with Everton, demonstrating skill in both scoring and assisting, typically from wider areas. Park likes to stretch oppositions by drifting out to the wing before taking on fullbacks when in possession. Being comfortable up close and personal to the touchlines has allowed Park to develop a unique trickery in getting out of tight areas, pulling off inspired manoeuvres when doing so. To further instate the impact the youngster can have, Park scored her first international goal just a minute after making her debut appearance for England against Japan last November. Photograph courtesy of the FA.

Crystal Palace v Sunderland Photographer Ryan Asman Crystal Palace were crowned Women's Championship champions in front of a record crowd at Selhurst Park. The Eagles held visitors Sunderland to a 0-0 draw as neither side were able to make the most of their chances to break the deadlock. Crystal Palace have earned promotion and will compete in the Women's Super League for the 2024/25 season.

Get to know every member of the current Lionesses squad. Lionesses Squad Mary Earps Manchester United’s number one has asserted herself as Wiegman’s first choice between the sticks after being absent from the international stage for a couple of years. Wiegman trusts in Earps and after her outstanding display at the Euro’s, it is easy to see why. Here is a goalkeeper who does her homework, one who is exceptionally well prepared against individual opponents and knows exactly when to put her game face on. Earps is a capable shot-stopper and is unafraid to step out and take defensive work into her own hands. Known to be vocal, Earps ensures she is in constant communication with those around her. Her direct nature allows her to articulate exactly what she expects of her defensive line, which is a critical when defending set-pieces. Earps also demonstrates accuracy with passing and is comfortable to sit between centre-backs to allow fullbacks to stretch the pitch when playing out from the back. Photograph courtesy of the FA.

Get to know every member of the current Lionesses squad. Lionesses Squad Katie Zelem Manchester United captain Katie Zelem is becoming a common name on the Lionesses squad list of late. With United heavily contending for domestic acclaim, Zelem’s profile as a possession-based and precision-led central midfielder has become fundamental to her club. Zelem is best used in a double pivot in which she is able to step out and ping pinpoint passes forward whilst still maintaining a level defensive cover. Excelling in deadball situations, Zelem is a prolific set-piece taker and set-piece scorer. From both corners and free-kicks, Zelem’s deadly right foot sees her as an essential component in goal creation as she assists others. She is also renowned for scoring from the corner flag which is never a bad trick to pull out the bag. Photograph courtesy of the FA.

More transfer news from the Women's Super League Back WSL Round Up More transfer news from the Women's Super League Arsenal FC 5 August 2024 By Paul Donegan Dutch international goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar has joined Arsenal from Aston Villa for a fee. The 24-year-old made over 100 appearances for FC Twente where she won three league titles and a further five domestic trophies. Van Domselaar made 15 appearances for Villa during her one-year spell there. She made her full Netherlands debut in 2022 since when she has won 27 caps and featured at the Euros in 2022 and World Cup in 2023. On joining, van Domselaar said, “I’m really happy to be here. If you look at Arsenal, the players, the team, the stadium, it’s a huge club and I’m so excited to be part of the club. I want to win trophies and achieve big things, and Arsenal is the right place for me to do both. I can’t wait to play at Emirates Stadium in front of all the supporters and show what I can do.” Manchester City have confirmed the signing of Japan international Aoba Fujino on a three-year contract. The 20-year-old forward joins the Cityzens from Tokyo Verdy Beleza where she made 51 appearances and scored 24 goals. For her country, she became their youngest ever goalscorer during the 2023 World Cup. Fujino remarked, “in the league, this is a top-level club both physically and technically. That is something I find very appealing, the size of the team and the organisation. It’s very important to play in this kind of environment. This is a very big club with a lot of history, so I’m really excited to come here.” Aaton Villa have announced the signing of goalkeeper Sabrina D’Angelo following the expiry of her contract at Arsenal. D’Angelo joins on a two-year deal having spent the last season-and-a-half with the Gunners where she made 15 appearances in all competitions. The 31-year-old Canada international had previously played for Toronto Lady Lynx, Western New York Flash, North Carolina Couage and Vittsjo GIK. Crystal Palace Women Crystal Palace have confirmed that Denmark international Katrine Veje has joined the club following two seasons with Everton. The 33-year-old made 27 league appearances during her spell with the Toffees. In her 17-year-long career, the defender also has experience of playing in Denmark, the United States, France and Sweden as well as winning over 160 international caps. “I’m super, super happy to join Crystal Palace. It’s a really good project and you can tell the club really want to invest in this women’s team”, Veje commented after joining the Eagles. Manchester United have confirmed the signing of Sweden international Anna Sandberg on a three-year deal, with an option of a further year. The defender joins from BK Hacken where she gained experience of playing in the Champions League. She was part of the Sweden squad at last year’s World Cup. Sandberg said, “I’m very happy and grateful to sign for this big club, Manchester United. I hope I can help our team with my qualities and delivery many winning moments for out fantastic fans.” Photo: Aston Villa Women Missy Bo Kearns has joined Aston Villa from Liverpool for an undisclosed fee. The midfielder has signed a three-year contract with the Villans. Kearns began her senior career with Liverpool in 2018 and went onto make over 100 appearances for the Reds. She has also featured regularly for England’s youth sides. Inma Gabarro has joined Everton after leaving Sevilla following the expiry of her contract. The 21-year-old is capable of playing across the forward line as well as in midfield. She helped Spain win the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in 2022, where she also won the Golden Boot, and made her senior international debut in November 2022. Gabarro remarked, “It’s my first time here in the English league and I’m really looking forward to coming here. I think Everton is a club where you can continue your development”. Leicester City have signed French youth international striker Noemie Mouchon on a three-year contract. The 21-year-old left Stade de Reims this summer where she scored nine goals in 22 league appearances last season. On joining the Foxes, Mouchon said, “I’m super happy to sign for Leicester City and I’m hoping to have a great season with the club. This is a great club that can develop players with potential. It goes without saying that the WSL is the most attractive league in Europe, if not the world. It’s a dream for most female footballers to play in England.” Goalkeeper Shae Yanez has joined Crystal Palace after leaving Bristol City. Yanez spent the second half of the 2023/24 season with the Robins having previously played for Washington Spirit and San Diego Wave in the National Women’s Soccer League and she spent three seasons with London City Lionesses in the Championship. The 27-year-old commented , “I’ve always been a big fan of Palace, so I’m excited to get started here. It’s just a great club in general and they have great ambition. Getting promoted, you could see the fight in them. And I’m excited to be a part of that.” Danish internationals Sara and Karen Holmgaard have both signed new deals with Everton. Defender Sara joined the Toffees in August 2022 and last season featured in 12 league games, scoring twice and providing three assists. Karen, who has played in midfield and defence, joined alongside her twin in 2022 and made 13 league appearances during the 2023/24 campaign and scored two goals. NJ/NY Gotham FC Jess Carter has departed Chelsea and completed a move to NJ/NY Gotham FC of the National Women’s Soccer League for an undisclosed transfer fee. The 26-year-old joined the Blues in 2018 from Birmingham City and went onto make 150 appearances for the club. The defender won five WSL titles, the FA Cup three times, the League Cup twice and the Community Shield once during her time with Chelsea. With England, Carter was part of the squads that won the Euros in 2022 and reached the World Cup final last year. Arsenal have confirmed the Gio Queiroz has left the club and moved to Atletico Madrid. Gio joined the Gunners in 2022 from Barcelona and made a total of 11 appearances for them. She spent the first part of the 2022/23 season on loan at Everton and last season had a spell with Liga F side Madrid CFF. News

Karen Carney is unveiled as newest inductee into the WSL Hall of Fame Back Karen Carney is inducted into the Women's Super League Hall of Fame Karen Carney is unveiled as newest inductee into the WSL Hall of Fame 27 October 2022 FA Media Release The Barclays Women’s Super League Hall of Fame is delighted to announce Karen Carney MBE as the first inductee of 2022. Carney becomes the fifth individual to be inducted since The FA and lead partner Barclays launched the Hall of Fame last year and is the first of three inductees to be recognised this year. Nicknamed ‘The Wizard,’ Carney had an illustrious career that included nine seasons in the Barclays Women’s Super League with hometown club Birmingham City and Chelsea. Over her entire career, she won a number of honours following stints with Birmingham City and Arsenal, as well as with the Chicago Red Stars and Chelsea, which included the infamous ‘quadruple’ with the Gunners in 2007. Her honours during her time in the Barclays WSL include topping the league scoring charts with Birmingham in 2014, as well as winning the Vitality Women’s FA Cup with the Blues in 2012. She also achieved an impressive league and cup double with Chelsea in 2017/2018. Earning 144 England Caps places her as the third most capped England Women’s international of all time, with her Lionesses career ending following the 2019 FIFA World Cup. Her skills on the pitch and ability to analyse the game off it have led to opportunities in the broadcast world since she ended her playing career, working on Sky Sports’ Barclays WSL coverage, as well as with ITV and Amazon Prime. Carney’s induction was confirmed by the Barclays WSL Hall of Fame selection panel, which features prominent former players, coaches and an official from the women’s game, as well as journalists and members of FA staff. Chair of the Barclays WSL Hall of Fame panel, Kelly Simmons, said: “Induction into the Barclays WSL Hall of Fame is the highest individual honour offered by the league and I am delighted that Karen is our first inductee of 2022. “She played at the very highest level for a prolonged period of time, and her record speaks for itself. She is absolutely deserving of being inducted into our Barclays WSL Hall of Fame. “Not only was she an incredible player, but she is a wonderful ambassador for our game and has gone on to be a brilliant pundit. Congratulations on your induction, Karen.”  Karen Carney with Jess Creighton News

Back Demi Stokes Club Manchester City Position Defender D.O.B 12/12/1991 Bio Left back Demi Stokes has been a regular figure for both club and country for a number of years. Typically playing a more defensive fullback role, Stokes is quick and persistent in tracking back and retrieving. However, ever-developing, she also possesses the ability to press forward and overlap her winger in times of transition bringing the best of both to the left side. Girls on the Ball B5

Spurs move onto the next round of the FA Cup after a 5-0 win over LCL Back Match Report FA Cup 4th Round: Tottenham Hotspur v London City Lionesses Spurs move onto the next round of the FA Cup after a 5-0 win over LCL Edward Payne 29 January 2023 By Finley Chung A strong and commanding performance from Spurs saw them see off spirited Championship outfit London City Lionesses to advance to the Fifth Round of the Women’s FA Cup. Goals from Bethany England, Mana Iwabuchi, Drew Spence, Eveliina Summanen and an own goal ensured progress. Spurs made two changes from their midweek loss to Chelsea in the League Cup, with Ash Neville returning from suspension to replace Amy Turner and Angharad James replacing Evaliina Summanen in midfield. Their Championship visitors, London City Lionesses came into this off the back of a 5-0 win over Crystal Palace in their last outing, however this was their first game under new Head Coach, Nikita Runnacles following Melissa Phillips departure. The visitors made one change to their lineup with Lilly Agg replacing Carly Girasoli. The visitors got the game underway on a bitterly cold Sunday afternoon in East London but it was the hosts with the first chance. Rosella Ayanne scampered away down the left and pulled the ball back for Drew Spence who saw her effort blocked. The hosts quick followed it up with another good chance as Angharad James looped a ball over to Bethany England who superbly cut inside her marker but drilled her shot just the wrong side of the post. The visitors then bit back with their first chance of the game as Karin Muya’s pullback was arrowed goal wards by Sarah Ewens, forcing Tinja-Riikka Korpella into a good save at her near post. With just over ten minutes on the clock, the WSL side broke the deadlock thanks to Bethany England’s superb header after a fine delivery from Ayanne out on the left flank making it 1-0 to Spurs. Rosella Ayanne was next to try her luck for the hosts after picking the ball up just outside the area but her shot flew wide of Shae Yanez’s right hand post. London City were then thwarted by an excellent piece of defending as Karin Muya once again got in behind Kerys Harrop on the Spurs left but her pullback was brilliantly cut out before it could reach a London City body in the middle. Photo: Edward Payne The visitors came again ten minutes before half time with Harley Bennet swinging a ball in from the right but Lilly Agg’s header is well held by Korpela in goal. Right at the end of the half, Spurs doubled their lead and it was a first goal for the club for loanee, Mana Iwabuchi after she was found by Ashleigh Neville on the edge of the box. Her shot deflected in past Yanez to bring the half to a close and put the hosts 2-0 up. Half Time - Spurs 2-0 London City Lionesses Spurs made a change at half-time with Eveliina Summanen replaced Rosella Ayanne and the substitute had an immediate impact, helping Spurs star the second half exactly the way they finished the first. Drew Spence added number three, tapping home Summanen’s ball at the far post for her second goal in two matches. The hosts very nearly had a fourth as Spence picked out a delicious ball to England but the latter header was well saved by Yanez. Two more changes from Rehanne Skinner with about half an hour to go, with Shelina Zadorsky and Bethany England being replaced by Amy Turner and Nikola Karczewska. Spurs added their fourth goal of the game after another wicked ball in from the left from another substitute, Karczewska and Ciry’s Harley Bennett sliced the clearance over her own goalkeeper and into her own net to make it 4-0. Rehanne Skinner made use of her final two changes, bringing off Mana Iwabuchi and Ashleigh Neville for Chioma Ubogagu and Asmita Ale. Amy Turner was next to try her luck after some neat interplay with Ubogagu but her fierce right footed shot was wide of the mark. The hosts did get their fifth eleven minutes from time after Karczewska was again the provider, sliding a simple pass along to Eveliina Summanen who capped a very impressive substitute cameo with a goal to go with her assist to make it 5-0. Spurs comfortably saw out the remaining injury time to ensure they progress to Round Five of the Women’s FA Cup in a much needed and confidence boosting win for Rehanne Skinner’s side. Full Time - Spurs 5-0 London City Lionesses Scorers - Beth England (11’), Mana Iwabuchi (45+1’), Drew Spence (47’), Harley Bennet (OG, 65’), Evelina Summanen (79’)

Defender Rafaelle Souza expects another big test against Manchester City as they come up against them for the second time in four days Back Souza says Arsenal are in for another "big fight" against City Defender Rafaelle Souza expects another big test against Manchester City as they come up against them for the second time in four days 10 February 2023 Arsenal defender Rafaelle spoke to the press after the Gunners 1-0 win over Manchester City in the Conti Cup semi-final. Here is what she had to say. What was it like defending against Bunny Shaw and Manchester City’s attack? Rafaelle said “the whole team did well defending because not conceding a goal against them is really hard and I think we did a great job as a team but especially to not let her score is special for us but we have to do it all on Saturday again (Arsenal play Man City in the WSL then).” When was the back three idea introduced to the squad (Jonas Eidevall said later this was the first time he has used this formation at Arsenal)? Responding, Rafaelle said “they started working on it this week but it is just not for this game, I think we like having different styles of play and we can play different styles.” What was Jonas’ thinking about moving you to the right side of defence when Jen Beattie came on? “He was telling me to go in then find the outside wingers, and also because I played on the left, in the middle and on the right, I think it is good for me so I can play all over the pitch, I think it is good for the team but I will always give my best, doesn’t matter where I am going to play” Rafaelle said How does it feel to be in your first cup final in England? Rafaelle answered by saying “ It feels so brilliant, I am so happy. My first final with this team, I think we deserve it. We work so hard, we have been working the whole year on this and think we deserve it.” How do you stay focused at the end of extra-time? “We have to carry on the energy, like from the team, we put in good work today, and for me as a defender I have to be concentrating and be focused for the whole game, especially when we scored and got a lot of pressure on our team, but I think we did a good job as a team together defending” respond Rafaelle. Does it come into your mind you are playing Man City again on Saturday? “We know we have a tough game on Saturday but now we have to think about rest and have a good sleep because the next game will be another big fight” concluded Rafaelle. News

Get to know every member of the current Lionesses squad. Lionesses Squad Alessia Russo The backheel assassin herself Alessia Russo is becoming a regular face on game days and it’s proving to be increasingly beneficial. The Manchester United striker gives the Lionesses’ forward line something altogether compelling; a buoyant point of reference to target. Russo is adaptable and has experience in playing out wide, however she is most effective when stationed in the centre as a no. 9. Using her physicality, Russo likes to put the pressure on and strongly contest for the ball, thus causing her to have quite the presence in the area. Russo is a capable dribbler, and is also a willing runner, which leaves England in good stead when using quick transitions. Finally, Russo is extremely good in the air adding further element to her layered abilities Photograph courtesy of the FA.