#also Emma Hayes first win was big

[misskelley]

Get it 👏

[redwineconversation]

Lindsey Horan Olympique et Lyonnais Interview (September 6, 2024)

I'm morbidly curious which fans will end up being the most offended by this interview.

Jokes aside, I have a lot of thoughts about Woso and/or US fans but that's something I have already discussed privately. Though I think if you read between the lines you know what my views already are.

Blah blah standard disclaimers apply; I'm Swiss I'm not cut out for this heat @OL Comms Dept pls save me and by that I mean my AC bill; if you're offended at players keeping their private life private then maybe you are the problem; blah blah y'all know the speech by now.

LINDSEY HORAN OLYMPIQUE ET LYONNAIS INTERVIEW

Lindsey Horan (Lyon): I became a better leader because of the Olympics

During the preseason camp in Tignes, which she joined halfway through, Lindsey Horan sat down for several long minutes with Olympique et Lyonnais to talk about her summer with the United States, her role as a leader with the USWNT and at Lyon, but also her desire to might as well be a coach. All that with her trademark good sense of humor.

Olympique et Lyonnais: Lindsey Horan, how is it being back with the Lyon team?

Lindsey Horan : It's going really well. I only got back four days ago (interview took place the day before last during the preseason camp at Lyon). I came straight here so I had my first summer training this Tuesday. It's been good be back with my teammates.

It isn't too hard to come back so soon after winning the Olympics, without really having time to rest and recover?

Yeah, it's a bit difficult, but it's mainly a mental question. Playing in the Olympics takes a lot out of you, mentally as much as physically. So when it's over, you're really happy to have won. But the adrenaline crash comes quickly when you realize you immediately have to start getting ready for the following season. It's hard, but once I saw the team and we started playing, it immediately motivated me again.

We saw today that the new coach focuses a lot on ball possession. Is it easy to be motivated again when you know you're going to be playing football rather than a fitness session?

Exactly, I can't take any more fitness sessions (laughter). It's much more fun to play.

"People don't realize what a captain does during a tournament"

Going back to the Olympics... Is it a source of pride, as captain, to have won this gold medal?

Yes, it's the biggest honor to have been captain of a team who won gold. It wasn't easy. It was one of the most memorable tournaments. It was a big adventure and the team was really in form. I'm really proud of the team and to have won gold.

Male players often say that the Olympics doesn't have the same meaning as the World Cup. Do you feel the same?

No, it's just different. It's hard to compare the feelings. Obviously, winning the World Cup was something incredible for me. But the only thing I was missing was a gold medal at the Olympics. It's different because we're representing our country in a different way, with Team USA and its athletes. And as I said, it's really hard to play six games in only 2 and 1/2 weeks. So mentally, having overcome that challenge by winning gold is an incredible feeling.

Emma Hayes said a lot of nice things about you after the final. How would you rate your evolution as captain between the World Cup and the 2024 Olympics?

You need a bit of time before the competition to really understand the enormous responsibility that a captain has to take on during a World Cup. People don't really understand everything a captain has to do during a competition. I learnt from the World Cup and Emma (Hayes) has also taught me an enormous amount about how to be a good leader [no comment]. I've evolved a lot, even during the tournament. I took on a lot of responsibility. That's why I was so emotional during the press conference. People don't understand all these responsibilities. That's how having heard what the coach said really touched me. She didn't even have to say it, that's why I was so happy to hear her congratulate me.

"What Wendie does here in Lyon inspires me"

Between camp and the competition, the Olympics lasted two months. In the end, did you have more of a mental role than as a player in the team?

Yeah, it's a bit difficult because we had a new staff. It was Emma [Hayes]' first tournament and she brought a lot of staff with her. So, I think having our old staff and older players adjust to these new principles wasn't easy. I hope that I managed to elevate some of the stress from my team and especially from the coach. Tournaments are also very stressful for the coaches, but Emma never stresses. She is very calm and involved, which is really comforting for the players.

How do you stay concentrated on football being that you spend so much energy by helping others? Was there anyone helping you?

It was hard (laughter). The one who helped me the most isn't in the team. There's someone outside of it, her name is Tobin Heath (former Portland and OL Reign player) and who is a massive support [system]. When you are captain, no one would think you might need help. It's hard because I don't think I played the best that I could every game. But if I could help the team play its best, that's remarkable. It's why I look for help outside the team, even if Emma really supported me.

Was having a break between the Olympic Games and preseason with Lyon also a way to stay mentally fresh?

Yes, I went to San Diego with my fiancé, who also became Sporting Director. This doesn't mean that I will go to San Diego even if a lot of people seem to think so (laughter). I went to see him and sit in on his press conferences, then we went to the beach for a few days. It was really nice, it allowed me to decompress after a long season.

"I like the positive energy from head coach Montemurro"

Going back to Lyon, you've almost been here for three years. Do you have a leadership role here as well, or is it something Wendie [Renard] handles really well by herself?

Already after the first year I started to become more of a leader in the team. I think you can see it in the way I play on the field. I work even harder off the pitch to become better because it's different with the language and the culture. We have incredible leaders in this team, like Wendie (Renard) who has taught me a lot, she is the most professional captain I've played with. I learn a lot from her, it helps me develop my leadership skills. I also try to bring to Lyon what I learned with the USWNT.

Last year, there were defeats in the Champions League as well as in the Coupe de France. This year, is the objection still to win all three?

It's important to not take that for granted. We have to stay humble because it's not easy, as we saw in the Coupe de France last season. A team can struggle sometimes. The level has evolved to a point where we're never sure to win the league. For us, the objective is the same each season: we want to win everything. That's how every competitive club should think. But we need to stay humble: we know we have to work hard the whole season. We don't want to experience defeats again. We fix new objectives for ourselves to motivate us.

Sonia Bompastor left, did you know of head coach Montemurro before he signed with Lyon?

A little bit. I've heard really good things. We played against him when he was at Juventus. I've heard people talk about his style of play and how he coaches players. We also heard him talk about what he wanted. I really like his positive energy. Obviously we need to train with him to see how everything goes but he has given a good impression. We're going to work hard to be able to play according to his strategy.

He is a coach who likes to have [ball] possession. That must really be a philosophy that you like and which speaks to you...

When you look at how the game is changing in this day and age, with clubs who are putting more and more of a focus on rapid transitions, it's interesting to see a coach who prioritizes possession. It's really important not to lose sight of that, to know when to go, when to be in transition, when to keep the ball. In terms of tactics, the coach is bringing something different which the team might never have seen before. It makes me want to learn.

"Coach in the future? I've thought about it"

Even being one of the best players in the world, are there still things you can learn?

I see some things when I play, and I am always asking myself if there is something better which can be done. Do I need to pass, dribble, shoot ... is there a better solution? I need to learn tactically and learn more about my teammates' style of play and their habits. Having fresh eyes can only be good in terms of personal development.

You talk like a coach. Is coaching something you might be interested in getting into later on?

Yes, but it's something I will need to think about because being a coach requires a lot of work and doesn't seem like much fun. You have to stay at work all day (laughter). But it's true that I like passing on information to others. I adore helping the younger players, be at Lyon or with the national team. So yes, it could be something which interests me. I'm starting to look into it, I have to pass my exams, but I'm thinking about it.

The atmosphere within the team seems very laid back. Is something which continued from last year or did the new staff bring in this joy of life?

Between all my teams, Lyon has always been the club with the best atmosphere and has been since I arrived. Everyone is so welcoming and they are great teammates. It's a really great feeling, because we all want to play in this team, composed of really good people. I've been back for a few days but I still have the impression of being on vacation with them. When you haven't had any rest, it helps with the recovery (smiles).

[unitedbydevils]

Match Review: Liverpool Women 1-0 Manchester United Women

United fall out of the WSL top four to arch-rivals Liverpool, leaving a three point gap and only a shred of hope to finish the season 4th...

In the run up to the FA Cup Final next weekend, is Mark Skinner tinkering to protect his ideal XI? Or are United distracted by the chance at silverware? Either way, United fell to defeat and fell out of the WSL top four - swapping places with rivals Liverpool who now leapfrog the Red Devils by three points with one game to go.

The game itself was a relatively even affair; both teams started brightly with Galton and Koivisto coming close to scoring respectively. Liverpool had more shots overall, whilst United held more possession.

A nasty collision between Gemma Evans and Emma Koivisto saw the Finn fall head first into the side advertising boardings with a loud thud; a foul on camera but not from the direct POV of the linesman a yard away. Whilst Koivisto received treatment, Liverpool manager Matt Beard was sent off by referee Melissa Burgin for protesting the lack of booking for Evans.

United should have gone ahead with a great run from Lucia Garcia and a cut back pass to an open Ella Toone... for Ella to sky her shot over. Big yikes moment... until the next one. Liverpool played a short corner, whipped a ball in that went through everyone - and found Jenna Clark watched - but not marked - by Naalsund and Evans to tap home and give Liverpool a 1-0 lead just before the half-time whistle.

The second half was more of the same action; United with the high line holding the ball, and Liverpool utilising their pace and skill to break on United. A mistake late on from Millie Turner nearly gifted Liverpool a second but for poor finishing from Román Haug, and a great free-kick from Katie Zelem to the head of Melvine Malard almost scraped a draw back for United but for a fingertip save by Micah to push the ball round the post.

United will now need a double dash of fortune on the last day of the season for pride's sake; a home win against Chelsea (to also deny Emma Hayes any chance of silverware) and a Leicester home win to kick Liverpool back out of the top 4 and tie them with United but on a weaker goal difference. It could happen, but we're reaching.

With the INEOS influence at United growing, failure to win the FA Cup and failure to finish in the top 4 could be a death knell for Mark Skinner - who has been under-fire all season due to accusations of favouritism in his team selections and poor in-game tactics.

[neep-neep-neep]

per Just Womens Sports:

"For the first time since 2008, Alex Morgan will not be featured on a major tournament roster for the USWNT.

"It was a tough decision of course, especially considering considering Alex's history and record with this team," head coach Emma Hayes said on Wednesday. "But I felt that I wanted to go in another direction."

Hayes also noted how difficult it was to adhere to the Olympics' 16 outfield player-limit when explaining her roster cutting process.

Big picture: An Olympic gold medalist and two-time World Cup champion, Morgan's absence will be most deeply felt in the context of experience and leadership.

"Today, I’m disappointed about not having the opportunity to represent our country on the Olympic stage," Morgan tweeted after the roster dropped.

"This will always be a tournament that is close to my heart and I take immense pride any time I put on the crest," she continued. "In less than a month, I look forward to supporting this team and cheering them on alongside the rest of our country. LFG"

"I want to talk about what an amazing player and human Alex Morgan has been," Hayes underlined in Wednesday's press conference.

"There are players on the roster in the forward areas performing well, and the decision to take those players was one that we certainly deliberated over, but I think it's a balanced roster," she added.

Morgan notched two goals and an assist over nine appearances for the USWNT this year, proving herself a consistent contributor particularly during the team's Concacaf W Gold Cup win."

oh they're LOSING losing

[aus-wnt]

If you have access can you post this?

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2022/05/09/vision-skill-swagger-goal-confirms-sam-kerr-worlds-best-striker/

The goal that confirms Sam Kerr as the world's best female striker

A genius on the pitch, Chelsea's Kerr exudes confidence off it too, taking on a pitch invader and replicating iconic, shirt-off celebration

It takes a special type of striker who predicts what they are going to do to an opposition team before a game and then follows it through to perfection. That, though, is what Sam Kerr is. She is the perfect centre forward, a human cheat code for Chelsea.

Her prophecy to team-mate Erin Cuthbert on Saturday that she would score a wonder goal in Chelsea’s title decider against Manchester United the following day was a bold one, but the Australian has the genius to back it up and duly did.

In fact, she delivered not once but twice. Her first, an equaliser, was a sweetly struck, first time volley from the edge of the area, that swerved and dipped under the crossbar. Most players would not have even attempted the shot, let alone first time with the ball dropping in the air.

But it was the second which really highlighted Kerr’s awareness, intelligence and clinical instincts. When Mary Earp's - the Manchester United goalkeeper - clearance was headed back towards the edge of the area, Kerr already knew what she was going to do. She had seen that Earp had moved out of her six-yard box to kick the ball clear and was slightly to the left of centre 12 yards or so off her line.

In one movement, Kerr took the ball down on her chest, swivelled to get her body position at the right angle and then delicately, not powerfully, lifted a volley over the head of the retreating Earps and into the net. She was 25 yards out when she hit it and the weight on the finish, the arc of the ball, was sublime.

"She is decisive in the main moments," said her manager Emma Hayes. "She knows she can cope with these situations and deliver when it really, really matters. Most importantly, she has joy in what she's doing."

At the age 28, Kerr is, indeed, the ultimate big game hunter. There was the 92nd minute winner against Aston Villa back in March, two equally crucial goals in two London derby wins against Tottenham too when Chelsea had Arsenal breathing down their necks in the title race and now two goals to help deliver the title, just when Chelsea looked like they were wobbling.

This WSL title is Kerr's sixth major trophy in two years in the capital, and now has a remarkable 41 goals in 42 WSL games. They are the sort of figures Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo notched in their prime and which people said nobody would ever repeat. Kerr has done just that in a Chelsea shirt and if anything she is still getting better as an all-round striker, inside and outside of the box. That is why she has won the WSL golden boot.

The most incredible thing is how often she makes chances for herself. She is able to convert opportunities most players would not even recognise as such, as well making the most of the creative players she has around her in the wonderful side put together by manager Emma Hayes.

She is just as devastating in front of goal for Australia and it was Kerr’s goals in the Olympics last summer that knocked Team GB out in the quarter-finals.

But what makes her so good? It is not just her skill and ability, it is also the way she uses her brain. She anticipates things as well as anyone, seeing things happen before other players do. She combines that with the bravery and technique to execute what she wants to try.

As her promise to Cuthbert showed, she does not do self-doubt. In the nicest possible way, the Australian knows precisely how good she is. That is why she scored two wonderful goals, not one.

Australian sports stars have always tended to exude confidence in a way that more reserved and modest Brits have struggled to do. There is nothing polite about Kerr.

You only have to remember the way she dealt with a male pitch invader in Chelsea’s Champions League game against Juventus. When the stewards were slow to deal with the attention seeker, Kerr bided her time and delivered a powerful, and well placed, shoulder barge that sent him tumbling to the floor where he was apprehended.

Not many players would also have the confidence to replicate Brandi Chastain’s iconic, shirt-off goal celebration from the 1999 World Cup final, won by the USA, but Kerr did and has been lauded for it by Chastain herself.

She is a new global superstar for the women’s game, one who "tries things that maybe others wouldn’t,” as she put it on Sunday.

That is because most players know they are not good enough to pull them off. Kerr is and she knows it. And that is the secret to her success.

[xtruss]

Mohamed Salah and Sam Kerr Win PFA Player of the Year Awards

Liverpool’s Salah beats last year’s winner Kevin De Bruyne

Phil Foden and Lauren Hemp retain young player awards

— PA Media | Thursday 9 June 2022 | The Guardian USA

Mohamed Salah and Sam Kerr with their 2022 PFA player of the year awards. Composite: PA

The Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has been voted the Professional Footballers’ Association’s men’s player of the year, with Chelsea’s Sam Kerr collecting the women’s award.

The Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden retained the PFA young player of the year award, with the club’s forward Lauren Hemp named the women’s best young player for the third consecutive season.

Salah topped the poll, which was voted for by PFA members, ahead of Kevin De Bruyne, who had won for the previous two years and was an integral part of the City team that beat Liverpool to the Premier League title by one point.

The Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo and the Tottenham striker Harry Kane had also made the shortlist, along with Salah’s Liverpool teammates Virgil van Dijk and Sadio Mané.

The 2021-22 PFA Premier League Team of the Year

This is Salah’s second PFA player of the year trophy after he previously won in 2018. This season he helped Jürgen Klopp’s side to win the Carabao and FA Cups, and to reach the Champions League final, where they lost to Real Madrid.

The Egypt international Salah, who finished as the Premier League’s joint top scorer alongside Tottenham’s Son Heung-min with 23 goals, was announced as the PFA men’s player of the year at a virtual ceremony on Thursdayyesterday.

“It’s a great honour to win a trophy, individual or collective, and this one is big, so very happy and very proud of that,” said Salah, who was also voted the men’s footballer of the year by the Footballer Writers’ Association.

“This one is a really good one to win, especially because it’s voted by players. It shows you that you’ve worked really hard and you get what you worked for. I have my room with trophies in a cabinet and I made sure that I had another space for one more. I always keep space and just try to imagine that the trophies are going to come.”

The PFA Young Players of the Year, Phil Foden (Top) and Lauren Hemp, both of Manchester City (Bottom).

Kerr scored 20 goals for Chelsea to be top scorer in the FA Women’s Super League, helping Emma Hayes’s team win the domestic double after beating Manchester City in the FA Cup final. “It’s a massive honour whenever you’re voted by your peers. I think that’s the highest honour as a player, so it’s an amazing feeling,” said Kerr, who was also named the FWA’s women’s footballer of the year.

Arsenal’s Dutch forward Vivianne Miedema and her Gunners teammate Kim Little were also on the PFA shortlist along with Manchester City’s Alex Greenwood and Hemp as well as Chelsea’s Pernille Harder.

Foden, 22, topped an all-England shortlist on the men’s young player award. The Arsenal midfield duo Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe, Conor Gallagher, who spent the season on loan at Crystal Palace from Chelsea, the Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey and the Chelsea full-back Reece James were also nominated.

“I’m really honoured, to be honest, especially to win it back-to-back, it shows that I’ve come a long way this year with the consistency of my game,” Foden said. “Hopefully I can win the main award in the future, but it’s all about taking small steps and improving.”

Hemp, meanwhile, is the first person to win the PFA young player of the year award four times. The Chelsea forward Lauren James, Arsenal’s Norwegian star Frida Maanum, the Tottenham striker Jessica Naz, the Manchester United forward Ella Toone and the Brighton defender Maya Le Tissier made up the rest of the shortlist.

The One & Only Mohammad Salah

“It’s an honour to get this again. I think especially for it to be voted for by players that I’ve played against and come up against,” said the 21-year-old Hemp. “I look to many of them as role models as well so it’s an honour to be picked from them. I’m going to keep working hard to make sure that I continue on the right path.”

The 2022 PFA merit award saw two former England managers honoured, with Roy Hodgson and Hope Powell acknowledged for their outstanding contributions to football.

“I never won any trophies as a player unfortunately, so it is nice to be recognised by fellow professionals. It will have pride of place,” said Hodgson, 74, who left his role with Watford at the end of the season having taken over in January.

Powell, who is the Brighton women’s manager, added: “I feel lucky and blessed to be in the game after many years.”

[cadopan]

sarina is doing the walsh and leah as holding midfielder role thing which worked for team gb in the olympics (walsh and ingle). we have seen this before in wolfsburg (obi and engen) and tbh i quite like it. it does enable more wide plays instead of plays through midfield, might work against spain because from what i saw against germany, spain doesn’t do very well in the wide areas compared to other areas. playing through the middle(??) = giving spain (barca midfield) possession.

sarina i believe, has got the football brains to go against spain. netherlands lost 1-0 to spain just last year and tbh the dutch defence was a joke it was good tactics and not really good players. with the depth that england has, i can see another 1-1 draw coming if sarina plays her cards right

Sflr, I just finished watching the full replay of the England-Canada game. It was actually more entertaining than I expected, probably cause it was a game of two halves and a lot of the individual matchups/battles were captivating.

You're right, the Walsh-Williamson pairing in the MF was a joy to watch (and providing nice protection for the England backline too). I feel like England looked good in the first half largely due to their "hunting in packs" when closing down and winning the balls before Canada could do anything, but I'm not sure how that'll pan out against Spain who's pretty much the master of that crowding-you-out thing already. And I thought their wide play was not too bad against Germany actually, granted not as threatening as their signature plays through the middle but their flying fullbacks (Batlle, Ouahabi) were quite involved imo. 

Playing to the wide areas is definitely something England should take advantage of with Walsh as you said, who was unsurprisingly superb as that sprayer of passes from deep. I love how she always tries to make her passes pinpoint and well-weighted, rather than some players who just kinda keep relying on those hopeful passes somewhere into the forward region lol. Oh and it was nice that both teams each had their “talisman” ball distributors in Walsh and Fleming. Also Fleming is surprisingly hard to barge off the ball even though she’s not that big-framed haha.

Side not, am I the only one who enjoys Emma Hayes on commentary? Although I don’t care for her as Chelsea’s manager, when separating that fact she’s actually one of the few pundits, or “experts” with good insights that the English women’s football world has to offer imo. Although she was naturally a bit too biased towards her own players lol. Bright was solid too and an understandable pick since she scored, but Buchanan was the undeniable POTM for me. Other good shouts: Hemp, Walsh and Fleming. 

[fawsldaily]

The 27-year-old joins us from German side Wolfsburg ahead of our 2020/21 Barclays FA Women’s Super League season which begins away to Manchester United on Sunday. Harder has spent the past three-and-a-half years playing for Wolfsburg and it was there she established herself as one of Europe’s top footballers. She was named UEFA Player of the Year in 2018.

Indeed, it was a trophy-laden stint with the leading club in the Frauen Bundesliga, as Harder won the domestic Double in each of her four campaigns at the AOK Stadion, twice finishing as the top scorer in the German top flight. Her tally of 27 in the coronavirus-affected 2019/20 season was the highest by any player in the Frauen Bundesliga since 2010.

While there is so much more to her game than goals, as evidenced by her ability to play in any position across the front of the pitch or in an attacking-midfield role, Harder boasts a scoring record at the top level of European football that would be the envy of any striker.

At Wolfsburg she found the net 103 times in 113 matches, having previously scored 85 goals in 109 appearances for Linkopings in Sweden, while she averaged better than a goal a game at Skovbakken in her homeland. Add in 25 Champions League goals from 28 games and it is clear Emma Hayes has added another lethal finisher to her already prolific attacking options.

On signing for Chelsea, Harder said: ‘I’m extremely happy and extremely excited to get started, to finally be here and be a Chelsea player. I couldn’t be more happy.

'I’m excited to just play for such a big club, to play with so many amazing players and to also be playing in the league [Women’s Super League]. The English league, it’s so exciting at the moment and I’m really looking forward to it.'

Chelsea FC Women manager Emma Hayes added: ‘Pernille is one of the best players in the world. Her record at Wolfsburg and Linkopings, as well as internationally with Denmark, shows how valuable she has been to her teams.

‘She is a fantastic team player who wants to take her game to the next level. She chose Chelsea as the club that can push her to that level. She can play for any team in the world, but she chose us.

‘She chose the players, the staff, the environment, the playing style. You can’t get a bigger compliment than that from one of the best players in the world.’

Harder’s football journey began at the young age of five at local club Tulstrup and then she moved to Ikast kfum. From there she progressed to Viborg, where she made her debut in the 3F ligaen, at the age of 16 – which is the top division of women’s football in Denmark – and then on to Skovbakken in 2010. Alongside Skovbakken, she trained with the boy's academy of Midtjylland, her local professional team.

Following a move to Linkopings in Sweden, Harder began to show why she is rated so highly in her homeland. During four years with the club she helped them win back-to-back Swedish Cups, playing in the same team as Magdalena Eriksson, who of course is now Chelsea Women captain – and the duo were key players as Linkopings were crowned Damallsvenskan champions in 2016. Harder finished as the division’s top scorer with 23 goals.

Before long, she was making the step up to the upper echelons of European football by linking up with two-time Champions League winners Wolfsburg, who had won their first continental honour at Stamford Bridge in 2013. The league titles continued to come – four in as many years – and each was accompanied by a German Cup in the same season.

European glory eluded Harder, though, as her spell at the club coincided with Lyon’s dominance of the Champions League. Although she netted the opener against the French side in the 2018 final, they fought back to win 4-1. The personal glory of winning the UEFA Player of the Year award, 12 months on from finishing as runner-up for that prize, was no consolation for a footballer who puts the needs of the team ahead of her own.

Harder was the Champions League’s top scorer last year, despite Wolfsburg exiting at the quarter-final stage, and she flourished in her side’s run to the final once again this past season, including a four-goal haul in the 9-1 win over Glasgow City in the last eight. Her final game for Wolfsburg resulted in a 3-1 defeat as Lyon clinched the Champions League trophy for a fifth consecutive season on Sunday evening.

At international level, Harder debuted for Denmark in October 2009 at the age of 16, marking her first senior appearance for her country with a hat-trick against Georgia. The goals have come thick and fast ever since, as she has netted 61 times in 118 matches.

She also captains her country, having taken the armband on in 2016 – and the following year she was the spearhead of Denmark’s run to the final of the European Championship. Although she scored in that game against the Netherlands, Denmark succumbed to a 4-2 defeat against the host nation.

Harder is undoubtedly the leading light when it comes to women’s football in Denmark, as she has been named as her country’s Player of the Year on six occasions, including in each of the past five years.

[magdasabs]

vicky had an interview with the telegraph but i can't read it cause u have to pay, do u have it????

Vicky Losada wanted the No 17 shirt CREDIT: MANCHESTER CITY FC

Vicky Losada didn’t think twice when choosing her shirt number at Manchester City - No 17, the same as Kevin De Bruyne. The star signing, who joins the English club less than two months after leading Barcelona to a ruthless 4-0 victory over Emma Hayes’ Chelsea in the Champions League final, made history over the weekend by scoring the first Women’s Super League goal to be screened live on network television. Losada’s powerful strike in Saturday’s 4-0 victory against Everton was broadcast on BBC One to a record peak audience of 800,000 viewers, emulating De Bruyne as the Belgian also scored on his first league start for City - six years ago this month against West Ham. The 30-year-old Spain midfielder welcomes the association. “I had a few options,” she says of choosing the shirt, “and when I saw the No 17 was free I went for it, of course, because I’ve been following and watching the men’s games and there is no question about Kevin De Bruyne. He’s an amazing player, a midfielder like me, so I’m so happy to wear the same number as him.”

Losada scores against Everton CREDIT: ACTION IMAGES Losada says she joined Manchester City to give herself fresh motivation after fulfilling a lifelong goal in lifting the Women’s Champions League trophy as Barcelona captain. “It was a dream that I’d always had,” says Losada, of Spain’s first ever women’s Champions League win. “At Barcelona, we’d been working for years to be able to fight for that trophy and we knew it was our chance. “To be honest, it felt a little bit unreal. But after a month and looking back and then checking the pictures, I realised it’s a massive achievement and I’m so happy I did it fighting with the girls. The midfielder, who spent two seasons with Arsenal before rejoining her childhood club Barcelona in 2016, was delighted to return to the WSL this summer. “After winning the Champions League I needed a change, I needed some motivation. To be honest I never wanted to leave the English league before, so I was so happy when I had the offer from Manchester City - for me it’s the club that represents me, with their way of playing.”

Losada celebrates winning the Champions League with Barcelona CREDIT: REUTERS Losada says she is impressed by the off-field growth of the English game, which has completely transformed the league since her last stint here. “I’ve been following this league, every single game last year, I’ve been watching the girls and I really like their game and the football they play. I’ve been so happy from day one, the girls helped me a lot to adapt to the club and how they work. “It’s completely different, just the environment, the teams now opening up big stadiums, which is great for women’s teams, the BBC and Sky Sports, even the FA Player offering the games to everybody - I think it’s important to make things easier for people to watch,” she says. “The young girls are very talented in the league and I think this season is going to be very interesting to watch. Especially with the Euros coming up next year in this country, that’s also going to be very important for women’s football.”

Losada has settled in well at Man City CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES City will hope that her winning experience can help them in their own quest for European glory. Bar Arsenal’s triumph back in 2007, no English club has managed to claim the Champions League title. On Wednesday, Losada and her new Man City teammates must fight to get through to the competition’s newly-introduced group stage as they meet Real Madrid in the home leg of their second-round qualifier, with the score level at 1-1 on aggregate following last week’s first-leg draw in the Spanish capital. The draw could have been kinder for the English club, who reached last year’s quarter-finals, but Losada is glad the match-up has forced them to click into gear immediately. “Say if we had got a team with less experience, I would have preferred Real Madrid - it's a very good start, to put ourselves in a situation where we can give our best performance. “This pre-season was different because women’s football was in Tokyo, so we didn’t spend much time together, but every day we are getting better and hopefully on Wednesday we can also give a good performance.” The victors will progress to the new 16-team group-stage, for which defending champions Barcelona, last year’s finalists Chelsea and German and French champions Bayern Munich and Paris St-Germain have already qualified. Losada, though, is feeling confident. “It was very important to start the season with a win and especially with the big game we have on Wednesday. After the Everton game I’m feeling more comfortable, happy, and looking forward to the [Real Madrid] game.”

[your-dietician]

Over 270,000 people sign petition for France vs Switzerland to be replayed

New Post has been published on https://tattlepress.com/sports/over-270000-people-sign-petition-for-france-vs-switzerland-to-be-replayed/

Over 270,000 people sign petition for France vs Switzerland to be replayed

Switzerland’s goalkeeper Yann Sommer (R) saves a penalty by France’s forward Kylian Mbappe during the UEFA EURO 2020 round of 16 football match between France and Switzerland at the National Arena in Bucharest – GETTY IMAGES

Over 270,000 fans have signed a petition calling on Uefa to replay the Euro 2020 last-16 match between France and Switzerland because “the rules (of the game) were not respected” when Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer saved Kylian Mbappé’s decisive penalty.

Mbappé’s miss resulted in the world champions crashing out of the tournament in Bucharest after leading their eventual conquerors 3-1 at one point in the match.

But a petition was launched by a disgruntled French fan, Pierre, in the aftermath of the penalty shootout, demanding that Uefa replay the tie because Sommer’s feet were over the line as Mbappe struck the ball. Goalkeepers need to keep at least one foot on the goal-line when facing a penalty, otherwise the spot-kick can be retaken.

Neither the referee nor Var intervened on Sommer’s save but more than 270,000 people signed the petition – which has now been closed – despite several different angles showing that Sommer’s foot was on the line when Mbappé kicked the ball.

The hosts of the petition, leslignesbougent.org, wrote that “Uefa had been officially approached to gauge its position on the matter”, and that Pierre had informed the host site that he wished for the petition to be closed after the angles showing the legality of Sommer’s position came to light. “Our servers exploded,” the site added.

The original petition read: “During the penalty shootout of the France v Switzerland match, goalkeeper Sommer was not on his line ahead of Mbappé’s shot. We ask that Switzerland’s qualification is cancelled so that the match can be replayed.

“Sport must be played within the rules and that evening the rules were not respected.”

02:53 PM

Czech Republic v Denmark

Denmark coach Kasper Hjulmand says the team is looking to Christian Eriksen as an inspiration ahead of the match against the Czech Republic in the Euro 2020 quarter-finals.

Story continues

Eriksen suffered a cardiac arrest during Denmark’s opening game of the tournament. Team-mates were left shaken after seeing him receive emergency medical treatment on the field.

Hjulmand says “we’ll play with that heart of Christian Eriksen once again.”

The winner will face either England or Ukraine in the semi-finals.

AP

02:49 PM

Masterful Jordan Pickford has joined an elite band valued more by his country than his club

Unlike at Everton, when Pickford wears an England shirt he looks like he is sure he belongs out there, the undisputed No 1.

Jamie Carragher’s latest column for Telegraph Sport.

Jordan Pickford celebrating England’s last-16 win – GETTY IMAGES

02:38 PM

The Battle of Rome

Paul Ince’s bloody headband, chaos in the stands – and Southgate’s dark side.

England’s last trip to the Italian capital, in 1997, was another game they could not contemplate losing. David Seaman looks back on that momentous night.

Paul Gascoigne (L) and a topless Paul Ince (R) – GETTY IMAGES

02:20 PM

England get to work…

… with the quarter-final against Ukraine just over 24 hours away.

Kalvin Phillips of England trains during the England Training Session at St George’s Park on July 02 – GETTY IMAGES

Mason Mount of England trains during the England Training Session at St George’s Park on July 02 – GETTY IMAGES

Tyrone Mings shifting some tin – GETTY IMAGES

01:56 PM

Boris Johnson says he has no plans to reduce Euro 2020 stadium crowds

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Friday he did not plan to order a reduction in crowds attending the remaining Euro 2020 matches due to take place at Wembley.

Crowd capacity at Wembley will be increased to more than 60,000 fans for the semi-finals and final of Euro 2020 under a pilot scheme announced last week.

“Of course we’ll follow the scientific guidance and the advice if we receive any such suggestion,” Johnson said in response to a question at a news conference, alongside German Chancellor Angela Merkel who said she was worried about Uefa’s decision to let more people into stadiums.

“But at the moment… the position is very clear in the UK, which is that we have certain events which we can put on in a very careful and controlled manner with testing of everybody who goes there.”

01:34 PM

England fans in Rome

The first pictures are beginning to filter back home…

Fans gather in Rome ahead of Ukraine v England – Rome, Italy – July 2, 2021 – REUTERS

12:20 PM

Germany’s Kroos announces retirement from international football

Germany midfielder Toni Kroos has announced his retirement from international football after his team’s exit from the European Championship, the 31-year-old said on Instagram.

The 2014 World Cup winner earned 106 caps for his country, contributing 17 goals and 19 assists.

Kroos said it was clear to him “for a long time” that he would not be available for the World Cup in Qatar next year.

He said his priority now would be to focus on his club career with Real Madrid and spending time with his family.

Reuters

12:16 PM

The eight defining games of Raheem Sterling’s England career

From scapegoat to star man, Sterling has been the object of anger and criticism but is now England’s most experienced player and one of Euro 2020’s pre-eminent players.

Here, Sam Wallace runs down the eight matches that have defined his international career to date.

England’s forward Raheem Sterling celebrates the first goal during the UEFA EURO 2020 round of 16 football match between England and Germany at Wembley – GETTY IMAGES

12:00 PM

Emma Hayes signs new Chelsea deal

A revealed by Telegraph Sport in May, Emma Hayes, who has starred as a pundit at Euro 2020, has signed a new deal to remain as manager of Chelsea, the Women’s Super League champions have announced.

The 44-year-old has been with the club since 2012 and guided them to four WSL titles, two FA Cups and two League Cups. Hayes’ side were also Champions League runners-up last season.

She said on Chelsea’s official website: “Everyone knows what this club means to me.

“The work we’ve done together over the last nine years has been hugely rewarding, full of growth of the women’s game, accompanied with winning, which is one of the club’s key values. I really look forward to keep building on the successes we’ve already achieved and I’m delighted to have extended further.

Emma Hayes the manager of Chelsea Women lifts the Barclays FA Women’s Super League trophy after the Barclays FA Women’s Super League match between Chelsea Women and Reading Women at Kingsmeadow on May 09, 2021 in Kingston upon Thame – GETTY IMAGES

“It’s been a year and a half without fans, so I can’t wait to welcome them back to our home and share with them the wonderful team we’ve built together.”

Having retained the WSL trophy and the League Cup in 2020-21, Chelsea fell short of adding the Champions League as they were beaten 4-0 by Barcelona in the final in Gothenburg.

That was a first appearance in the final for the Blues – who reached the semi-finals in 2018 and 2019 – and the first by an English club since Arsenal, who had Hayes as assistant manager at the time, won the competition in 2007.

11:24 AM

Some more Premier League news…

Chelsea midfielder Billy Gilmour has joined Norwich on a season-long loan deal.

The 20-year-old impressed for Scotland in a goalless draw against England at Euro 2020 on June 18, before then having to self-isolate after returning a positive Covid-19 test.

Following his performance at Wembley it was reported that several Premier League clubs were interested in signing Gilmour on a temporary basis.

Newly-promoted Norwich have won the race for his signature and Canaries boss Daniel Farke feels Gilmour is a ���perfect fit” for his Canaries team.

“We are really happy to have brought Billy in,” said Farke, who saw midfielder Emiliano Buendia leave for Aston Villa for £33million last month.

“We must say a big thank you to Chelsea and all those involved for making this deal happen. I think it helped that in the past we have shown that young players with potential are in good hands here at Norwich City.

Billy Gilmour – GETTY IMAGES

“He will help us to achieve our targets. We still have to keep in mind that he is an unbelievably young guy and that he hasn’t played regularly on this level. We have to give him some time and space to improve and find his rhythm.”

Gilmour made 11 appearances for Chelsea last season, starting three Premier League matches.

The former Rangers youth player was an unused substitute in both the FA Cup and Champions League finals as Thomas Tuchel’s side lost the domestic showpiece to Leicester but beat Manchester City to become champions of Europe.

PA

11:10 AM

The England team Gareth Southgate should pick to defeat Ukraine

Telegraph football writers pick their XIs – and you can too, by clicking here.

We have asked our writers to pick who they would like to see face the Ukrainians, especially bearing in mind that four of the England squad are on yellow cards.

10:50 AM

How England can beat Ukraine and take another step to glory

What do we know about England’s opponents? What are their strengths and what are the areas to exploit? Who are the players to watch out for?

Telegraph Sport spoke to Ukranian football expert Andrew Todos and former Norther Ireland manager Michael O’Neill, who masterminded a win over Ukraine at Euro 2016.

You can read our big match dossier by clicking here.

Graphic depicting England and Ukraine’s star players

10:30 AM

England at full strength for Ukraine

Gareth Southgate’s 26-man squad all trained on the eve of England’s Euro 2020 quarter-final against Ukraine.

The reward for Tuesday’s 2-0 last-16 win against Germany at Wembley is Saturday’s clash against Andriy Shevchenko’s side in Rome.

The Three Lions fly to Italy on Friday afternoon and the full squad trained at their St George’s Park base that morning.

Mason Mount and Ben Chilwell were among those in action, having left isolation on the day of the Germany match after coming into contact with Chelsea team-mate Billy Gilmour, who tested positive for Covid-19 after playing for Scotland against England.

Harry Maguire, Declan Rice, Kalvin Phillips and Phil Foden are a booking away from a suspension heading into the quarter-final.

Manchester United defender Maguire, who was named man of the match on Tuesday, is set to join manager Southgate at Friday evening’s press conference in Rome.

10:23 AM

Captain Kane reporting for England training

JULY 02: Harry Kane of England trains during the England Training Session at St George’s Park on July 02, 2021 in Burton upon Trent, – GETTY IMAGES

10:08 AM

In Premier League news…

From our reporter, Mike McGrath.

09:44 AM

Achilles

No, not the Trojan war hero, but the cat that lives in St Petersburg’s Hermitage museum. He chose Spain while attempting to predict the result of tonight’s quarter-final.

Probably no need to play tonight now – the cat’s called it…

Achilles the cat, that lives in St. Petersburg’s Hermitage museum, chooses Spain while attempting to predict the result of the UEFA Euro 2020 quarter final match between Switzerland and Spain during an event in Saint Petersburg, – REUTERS

Achilles the cat, that lives in St. Petersburg’s Hermitage museum, chooses Spain while attempting to predict the result of the UEFA Euro 2020 quarter final match between Switzerland and Spain during an event in Saint Petersburg, – REUTERS

Achilles the cat, that lives in St. Petersburg’s Hermitage museum, chooses Spain while attempting to predict the result of the UEFA Euro 2020 quarter final match between Switzerland and Spain during an event in Saint Petersburg, – REUTERS

09:23 AM

De Bruyne and Hazard

Belgium boss Roberto Martinez will give Kevin De Bruyne and Eden Hazard until the last minute to prove their fitness ahead of tonight’s Euro 2020 quarter-final clash with Italy.

Manchester City star De Bruyne suffered an ankle injury during Sunday’s 1-0 win over Portugal, during which Real Madrid’s Hazard also limped off with a muscle problem, and neither was able to train with the rest of the squad on Thursday morning.

However, speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of the game in Munich, Martinez said: “We all know that we are fighting against time, but we’re going to take until the last minute to make the decision.

“Every day that goes by, every time they can sleep and get three meals and get some treatment, we see an improvement, and then we’ll see [today] if they can be involved or not. Unfortunately at the moment, we cannot make a decision.

“Obviously it will be difficult for [today] – a soft tissue injury in Eden’s case, maybe is difficult for a game like tomorrow, and for Kevin, having a ligament problem maybe is a bit different.

“But it’s more a medical decision. At the moment, it’s not a football decision; [today]it will become a medical decision in the afternoon and then we’ll make a football decision after that.”

De Bruyne left the pitch looking dejected in Belgium’s win over Portugal – GETTY IMAGES

Martinez could do with having all his most potent weapons available for a clash with an Italian side which is unbeaten in 31 matches, while both teams are bidding to become the first to win 15 consecutive European Championship matches since the start of qualification.

PA

09:06 AM

In case you missed it…

Neil Diamond told The Telegraph yesterday how “thrilled” he was that England fans were singing his famous ‘Sweet Caroline’ song at Wembley.

“Well, I hope you can do it again – here’s to England”, he told The Telegraph.

The 1969 song has featured in every England victory celebration at Euro 2020 and was a high point of celebrations after the team beat Germany 2 – 0 in the round of 16.

After the match, striker Harry Kane and coach Gareth Southgate both told the media how much they enjoyed hearing fans belt out the song in unison.

08:52 AM

Tournament odds

The bookies have England now as Euro 2020 favourites – even at 2/1 in some outlets.

Then come Spain (3/1) followed by Italy (4/1), with Ukraine the outside shot with bookmakers at 33/1.

08:41 AM

Magic Monday

A look-back at the day that proved internationals reach parts that the club game cannot.

As if Spain 5 Croatia 3 wasn’t enough, Switzerland and France also served up a classic on Monday night. What made it so memorable?

Read Thom Gibbs’ excellent breakdown here.

08:30 AM

RIP Charlie

08:16 AM

Predictions for this evening

Let us know in the comments below!

I’m going Spain and Italy to progress… just.

08:14 AM

Alvaro Morata

As Sam Dean writes, Alvaro Morata has scored 21 goals in 44 appearances for his country. He has won 14 major trophies in club football. He has played for four of the biggest clubs in the world and he has been transferred between them for a combined total of more than £170 million. If he finds the net against Switzerland on Friday, he will become the highest scorer in Spain’s European Championship history. Everything about his CV, and his list of accomplishments by the age of 28, suggests that Morata must be one of the continent’s elite forwards. And yet, for many people, the former Chelsea striker still seems to be regarded more as a punchline than as a top-level predator.

Read about how Morata has emerged from the darkness in a bright, dangerous Spain side.

Spain’s Alvaro Morata celebrates after scoring his side’s fourth goal during the Euro 2020 soccer championship round of 16 match between Croatia and Spain at the Parken Stadium in Copenhagen – POOL GETTY

07:59 AM

Can Switzerland do it again?

A reminder of how the Swiss got there in the first place.

They knocked out the world champions, France, on penalties, after fighting back from 3-1 down.

Refresh yourself on events in Bucharest by clicking here.

Kylian Mbappe missed the crucial penalty for France – GETTY IMAGES

07:35 AM

The Swiss are back!

Remember this bloke?

Swiss fan reacts to their victory over France

Topless and fully clothed, desperate and ecstatic: a Swiss football supporter has become a viral sensation after cameras zoomed in on his rollercoaster emotions watching his team beat France in the Euro 2020 tournament.

Found by Swiss media after images of him yelling and grimacing during Monday’s match went round the world, Luca Loutenbach has already amended his Twitter account to describe himself as the “Nati’s official meme since 28.06.2021.”

The Nati is the nickname for Switzerland’s national football team.

Loutenbach, 28, told Switzerland’s Blick TV that he was “just a normal fan”.

But those filming the game thought otherwise, zooming in on him several times during the play as he perfectly encapsulated Swiss fans’ ecstasy, dejection and frenzied joy – starting off wearing the Swiss red shirt and ending up topless and screaming.

The images quickly went viral, with London Mayor Sadiq Khan tweeting one with the comment “man of the match”.

“A star is born,” Swiss public television RTS said.

“Thanks for all your messages, what is happening to me is unreal,” he wrote Wednesday on Twitter.

“I’m actually quite discreet, even if that wasn’t on show during the game. So this is fun for one or two days, but I hope it will ease off a bit after a while,” he told Swiss TV.

Such is his fame that Switzerland’s airline Swiss has gifted him a free ticket to Russia to see his team play Spain in the quarter finals on Friday in Saint Petersburg.

The country’s tourism agency has also contacted him via Twitter to offer a relaxing weekend away in Switzerland.

07:18 AM

Good morning!

Hello and welcome to Telegraph Sport’s live coverage of the build-up to quarter-finals day, with the first two last-eight games kicking off tonight. Switzerland face Spain in St Petersburg at 5pm before Belgium take on Italy in Munich at 8pm.

England midfielder Jack Grealish said captain Harry Kane is the best player he has ever played with and tipped the Tottenham Hotspur forward to break the Premier League scoring record.

Kane drew a blank in each of England’s three group games at Euro 2020 but scored the second goal in Tuesday’s 2-0 win over Germany which put them into a quarter-final clash with Ukraine in Rome on Saturday.

Grealish said Kane, or “H”, was a deadly finisher but also praised his work outside the box.

“No one here would ever doubt ‘H’,” Grealish told British media on Thursday. “He’s the best player I’ve ever played with.

“He’ll break the Premier League record and the England one but he’s not just a goalscorer. He’s unbelievable when he drops deep and finds passes and puts it through people’s legs.”

Alan Shearer is the Premier League’s all-time leading scorer with 260. Kane is seventh on the list with 166.

Grealish came off the bench to play a role in both goals in the win over Germany but the 25-year-old said he was uncertain if he would start against Ukraine, given the attacking options at coach Gareth Southgate’s disposal.

“It’s difficult. I’m always playing every minute at Villa. I have to be realistic about myself and the talent that we have, especially in my position,” he said.

“You’ve got six players that play either side of Harry that, in reality, could play for most clubs in the world — myself, Jadon (Sancho), Marcus (Rashford), Raheem (Sterling), Phil (Foden) and Bukayo (Saka),” he said.

“That’s scary how good us six are. That’s not being big-headed. That’s just the truth.”

Reuters

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[fancybelieverdinosaur]

I think we all have to take a step back and appreciate tat we are talking about losing the cl final here! Even getting there is such a big achievement and winning it on the first try would have been a miracle honestly 😅 The way everyone besides P has never been in this final and went with a "being in the final is a childhood dream" attitude, also makes a big difference from Barca's "ok we have been here before". And it showed in Pernille's strive to do something, even though it didn’t work :)

Absolutely. Being in a CL final is a massive thing and being the 2nd best in Europe, like Emma Hayes, its not that bad💪

[theroleofimagination]

Assuming Arsenal deliver again and win the league who do you think will get second and the other CL spot? Will Chelsea get it back or will it be City or could someone like Man U spring a surprise. I suppose no one really will know where United will fall in the pack until they actually play in the WSL. Any dark horse potentials? Birmingham did pretty well last season, won more games than Chelsea.

I like your assumption anon! 🤞

I do think it's a bit early to tell, Chelsea will definitely be fighting to get back into the CL after getting far the last couple of years and now not being in it at all. Also, they'll have the benefit of having more rest so will be able to focus on the league more. Plus, they've got a pretty unchanged team so should be able to get started quickly - so far they've just added Guro Reiten and the only one of their outgoing players who may make a difference is Kaz Carney (Hedvig was basically already benhhed sadly so doesn't make a huge difference that she's gone) but Emma Hayes has known she would be retiring since March I believe so that's probably why Reiten was brought in. Plus they have a deep bench. (I still wonder if Bachmann may end up at West Ham though - they've been very quiet about signings so I'm expecting an announcement any day now and I think Chelsea prob start they preseason next week).

It'll be interesting to see if Man City's new players will replace their outgoing players sufficiently. If Walsh goes they could be in trouble. If Ellen White keeps up her World Cup form she's always dangerous but I don't think she assists as much as Keets did. Also, Mannion is an excellent CB but adjusting to a new backline always takes a little bit of time. They'll obviously be hoping to go further in the CL this time and to stay in the top 2 so it will definitely be a fight for those CL spots.

It's very hard to gauge what Man U will be like yet - they got some good results against lower table WSL teams last year in the cup comps but came up short against Arsenal and Reading. Obviously with their new signings they've got more players used to the top level, and a fair few they had last year were ex-WSL players anyway who had dropped down to join them. They've got a tough start to the season with Man City and Arsenal as their first two games but you never know really. I think they'll be aiming for Top 4 at least, but whether they get there is anyone's guess.

For the dark horses, West Ham is a big unknown at the moment - pretty sure they've made some new signings, but none have been announced yet and preseason has just started... Plus, Tessel Middag and Julia Simic are back from injury which is good - West Ham were hit hard last year with injury but still made it to the FA Cup Final so they'll want to push on in the league this year. They'll be hoping Alisha Lehmann is back from injury soon, she was a bright light in their offense last year.

Liverpool and Everton have both made some good signings to strengthen their teams and I'm looking forward to seeing how they progress. Likewise, Brighton and Bristol have made some good moves in the off season so they could surprise a few people I think.

Reading and Birmingham, who have been the teams to push the top 3 in the last few yrs (esp Bham) have been a lot quieter in terms of bringing players in, and Birmingham have lost a lot of their top players so it'll be very interesting to see how that pans out - if they're not careful the other teams could end up overtaking them.

Tottenham could be one to watch out for, they've added 7 good, experienced, players from around the WSL but the majority of the squad are used to playing in the Championship so it's tricky to say how they'll get on at this point.

Basically, I really think this could be the most competitive season yet and I really hope the CL expands a bit in the not too distant future so that the top 3 teams in leagues like the FAWSL get in!

[brandi-the-fine-girl]

76th Golden Globe Awards Predictions

Let’s be real here.  The Golden Globes are the biggest joke of Hollywood (right after the Emmy’s that is).  Remember when they nominated The Tourist in the Comedy/Musical category?  Or when they gave the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress to Jennifer Lawrence instead of Lupita Nyong’o?  Or when Get Out was nominated in Comedy/Musical (even though, yes, it was a dark comedy at times)?

So it comes as no surprise that this year’s list of nominees follows the same path.  The Golden Globes are the biggest wild card of all award shows and the Hollywood Foreign Press loves to throw curveballs.  With that said, here are my predictions for the 76th Golden Globe Awards.

Best Motion Picture - Drama

Will win:  A Star Is Born

Should win:  A Star Is Born

Dark Horse:  Black Panther

Look, I loved Black Panther.  And the fact that it has gained this much momentum during award season is a victory for Marvel Studios.  But I’m expecting a sweep for A Star Is Born.  Now, that doesn’t mean ASIB will maintain this momentum for the rest of award season.  The HFPA likes to play favorites and I’m sure ASIB will be this year’s Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri (which won four Golden Globes last year).  But a win for Black Panther would be huge and make it a bigger contender for the Oscars.

Best Motion Picture - Comedy/Musical

Will win:  Green Book

Should win:  Crazy Rich Asians

Dark Horse:  Mary Poppins Returns

The Comedy/Musical category is always the oddball category (see above about The Tourist and Get Out).  And it’s typically the category where anyone can win.  I’m going to go with Green Book since it won the People’s Choice at TIFF this year but with a diverse voting roster (it is the Hollywood FOREIGN Press after all), I wouldn’t count out Crazy Rich Asians.

Best Director

Will win: Alfonso Cuaron, Roma

Should win:  Alfonso Cuaron, Roma

Dark Horse:  Adam McKay, Vice

For me, I believe this is the only category A Star Is Born will not win.  Cuaron’s beautifully stunning and heartbreaking semi-autobiographical film was featured on Obama’s list of films he saw in 2018.  Bradley Cooper’s first directorial feature is a stunning accomplishment but it doesn’t match Cuaron’s ability to paint the anguish and loss in Roma.

Best Actor in a Motion Picture - Drama

Will win: Bradley Cooper, A Star Is Born

Should win:  Rami Malek, Bohemian Rhapsody

Dark Horse:  John David Washington, BlacKkKlansman

With a possible loss in the Directing category, Bradley will most like scoop up the Actor in a Drama award.  Sure, his character was doomed from the start and it makes for a great challenge for an actor like Bradley.  But Rami’s complete transformation into Freddie Mercury has me convinced he should win.  Don’t count out John David Washington in BlacKkKlansman though.  He’s new to the scene as an actor (he is Denzel Washington’s son) but his performance is definitely one to look out for.

Best Actress in a Motion Picture - Drama

Will win:  Lady Gaga, A Star Is Born

Should win:  Glenn Close, The Wife

Dark Horse:  Melissa McCarthy, Can You Ever Forgive Me?

Once again, I’m predicting a sweep for A Star Is Born but I don’t think Lady Gaga will snag two Oscars come Oscar night (that is, if she is nominated for songwriting and Best Actress).  Glenn Close is well overdue for some awards love and it seems like her time might come.

Best Actor in a Motion Picture - Comedy/Musical

Will win:  Christian Bale, Vice

Should win:  Christian Bale, Vice

Dark Horse:  Lin-Manuel Miranda, Mary Poppins Returns

It’s hard for me to choose anyone else when Christian Bale is in a category.  This is the man that got rail thin for his roles in The Machinist and The Fighter (the latter of which he did win Best Supporting Actor at the Oscars) and bulked up for Batman Begins (gaining 100 pounds) almost six months after filming The Machinist.  His transformation into the notorious Dick Cheney seems like typical awards bait to me.  But let’s not count out the lovable Lin-Manuel Miranda.  The man works hard on stage and screen.  I’d love to see a win for him

Best Actress in a Motion Picture - Comedy/Musical

Will win:  Olivia Colman, The Favourite

Should win:  Constance Wu, Crazy Rich Asians

Dark Horse:  Emily Blunt, Mary Poppins Returns

The category is such a wild card for me.  I’m sure by the end of 2019, everyone will know who Olivia Colman is.  From the little bit I’ve seen of The Favourite, she’s amazing.  However, I do think Constance Wu is more deserving of the accolades.  This category could really go to anyone and with the lovable Emily Blunt also nominated, it could possibly go to the legendary Mary Poppins herself.

Best Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture

Will win:  Mahershala Ali, Green Book

Should win:  Timothée Chalamet, Beautiful Boy

Dark Horse:  Adam Driver, BlacKkKlansman

Look, before you rip me to shreds, here me out.  I have loved Mahershala Ali since he was on House of Cards and he was painfully robbed in 2017 when the HFPA gave Best Supporting Actor to Aaron Taylor-Johnson instead of Mahershala.  It feels like Mahershala deserves the accolades as a “sorry we gave it to someone else and then you ended up winning the Oscar anyways.”  However, I just watched Beautiful Boy last night and Timothée kills it.  I’m not some crazy fangirl.  I just know a good performance when I see one.  Let’s not count out Adam Driver, though, who knocks it out of the park in BlacKkKlansman.

Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture

Will win: Amy Adams, Vice

Should win:  Regina King, If Beale Street Could Talk

Dark Horse:  Claire Foy, First Man

Since Amy Adams most likely won’t win for Best Actress in Mini Series (more on that later), I’m hoping this is where she gets her due.  The woman is long overdue for the awards love (a lot like Glenn Close).  She’s basically the female Leonardo DiCaprio, if you must.  The fact that Regina King did not nab a SAG Award nomination for If Beale Street Could Talk is a little ominous (side note: the acting branch is the largest branch of the Academy and a lack of SAG nomination is very telling).  I like to hope that she can pick up a Globe as recognition for her stunning work.  To me, Rachel Weisz and Emma Stone split the vote so my Dark Horse goes to Claire Foy.  I wouldn’t be surprised if HFPA voters’ obsession with her throws us a curveball in this category.

Best Screenplay

Will win:  Adam McKay, Vice

Should win:  Alfonso Cuaron, Roma

Dark Horse:  Bryan Hayes Currie, Peter Farrelly, Nick Vallelonga, Green Book

This is usually a difficult category considering the Oscars split the Screenplay category into Adapted and Original.  The HFPA likes to play it safe by awarding previous winners and nominees so I’m going with Adam McKay who won the Oscar for The Big Short.  Alfonso Cuaron is equally deserving if Best Director doesn’t go his way.  But come Oscar time, I’m expecting a win for Green Book.

Best Original Score

Will win:  Alexandre Desplat, Isle of Dogs

Should win:  Ludwig Goransson, Black Panther

Dark Horse:  Marco Beltrami, A Quiet Place

Alexandre Desplat won last year for The Shape of Water (a well-deserved win if I do say so myself) but I feel Ludwig Goransson may have a chance here.

Best Original Song

Will win:  “Shallow”

Should win:  “Shallow” or “All The Stars”

Dark Horse:  “Girl in the Movies”

Probably the easiest category of the evening.  You can’t turn on any radio station without hearing “Shallow.”  And rightfully so.  The dynamic between Bradley and Gaga is mesmerizing and Gaga’s high note is the most memorable part of it.  However, I wouldn’t mind some recognition to “All The Stars.”  Personally, I feel like “Pray For Me” is the better song but let’s give some love to Kendrick and SZA if we can.

Best Animated Feature Film

Will win: The Incredibles 2

Should win:  The Incredibles 2

Dark Horse:  Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

I mean, no contest, this one goes to The Incredibles 2.  Very rarely does Pixar lose an award (exceptions go to Cars 2 and Monsters University) but if it does, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse might take it.

Best Foreign Language Film

Will win:  Roma

Should win:  Roma

Dark Horse:  Girl

Again, no contest, Roma.  But Girl could take it since it won the Caméra d’Or and the Queer Palm at the Cannes Film Festival in 2018.  Unfortunately, the film did not make the short list for the Best Foreign Language Film category for this year’s Oscars so maybe it may get its due here.

Best Television Series - Drama

Will win:  The Americans

Should win:  The Americans

Dark Horse:  Pose

After six seasons, The Americans ended on a high note.  It felt painfully under-appreciated at the Emmys this year, so maybe this is where it will get its due.  However, don’t overlook Pose since everything Ryan Murphy touches turns to awards gold.

Best Television Series - Comedy/Musical

Will win:  Barry

Should win:  Barry

Dark Horse:  Kidding

After winning big at the Emmys, I’m predicting some major love for Barry.  The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel is last year’s winner which may hinder Barry’s chances but the HFPA does tend to choose different winners every year.

Best Actor in a Television Series - Drama

Will win:  Matthew Rhys, The Americans

Should win:  Matthew Rhys, The Americans

Dark Horse:  Richard Madden, Bodyguard

After scooping up an Emmy, Matthew Rhys will probably continue his awards sweep with a Golden Globe.  Billy Porter may give him a run for his money in Pose (he was also wonderful in American Horror Story: Apocalypse).  If we want a shocker, the HFPA could go with Richard Madden in Bodyguard.  Good looks aside, Madden portrays a former British Army sergeant with PTSD fantastically.  It is unclear if Bodyguard has been greenlit for a second season but a Globes win might cement that status.

Best Actress in a Television Series - Drama

Will win: Sandra Oh, Killing Eve

Should win:  Keri Russell, The Americans

Dark Horse:  Julia Roberts, Homecoming

One half of our emcees for the evening, expect Sandra Oh to pick up a Globe as well.  Keri Russell was horribly robbed at the Emmys so she is more deserving for her final season of The Americans.  America’s Sweetheart Julia Roberts is a threat to these two with the inaugural season of her Amazon Prime series Homecoming.  Here’s where you can possibly expect a big shocker but I’m still sticking with Ms. Christina Yang herself.

Best Actor in a Television Series - Comedy/Musical

Will win:  Bill Hader, Barry

Should win:  Bill Hader, Barry

Dark Horse:  Jim Carrey, Kidding

I’ve always had a soft spot for Bill Hader since he was on Saturday Night Live.  Starring as a former Marine-turned hitman-turned aspiring actor is the most Bill Hader thing that Bill Hader could possibly do.  Jim Carrey has been placing himself more in the comedy/drama (aka “dramedy”) category as of recent years so don’t count him out in this race.

Best Actress in a Television Series - Comedy/Musical

Will win:  Rachel Brosnahan, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

Should win:  Alison Brie, GLOW

Dark Horse:  Kristen Bell, The Good Place

Rachel Brosnahan could possibly be a repeat winner here.  Season two of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel is getting just as great reviews as season one did (if not as great, then better).  Personally, I feel Alison Brie deserves it but Candice Bergen may come through with the win as well.  However, this Kristen Bell’s first-ever Golden Globe nomination so she could very well take it.

Best Actor in a Miniseries or Television Film

Will win:  Darren Criss, The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story

Should win:  Darren Criss, The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story

Dark Horse:  Hugh Grant, A Very English Scandal

We’ve come a long way since A Very Potter Musical, haven’t we?  Darren Criss’s portrayal as Versace’s murderer Andrew Cunanan is one of the best performances I’ve seen in recent years.  The creepy smile underneath his hand as he sees the news that Versace has been killed makes him a lock for this category.

Best Actress in a Miniseries or Television Film

Will win:  Laura Dern, The Tale

Should win:  Amy Adams, Sharp Objects

Dark Horse:  Regina King, Seven Seconds

Like I said above, I’m hoping Amy Adams will get her due in the Best Supporting Actress category because it seems like she won’t get it here.  Laura Dern is a favorite of the HFPA so she most likely will win.  Amy Adams is the more deserving here but if things don’t work out for Best Supporting Actress, I’m hoping the HFPA does a flip-flop gives it to her here.  Regina King won the Emmy for Seven Seconds but she seems like a long shot here.

Best Supporting Actor in a Series, Miniseries, or Television Film

Will win:  Henry Winkler, Barry

Should win:  Edgar Ramirez, The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story

Dark Horse:  Kieran Culkin, Succession

It’s always been odd to me that the Golden Globes don’t split their supporting television categories.  Sure, it makes for great competition but it’s also incredibly unfair.  I’m going with Henry Winkler in Barry (who was well overdue for that Emmy) but Edgar Ramirez definitely should be the winner in my eyes.  Kieran Culkin (the only nominee for HBO’s Succession) could pull a surprise win here.

Best Supporting Actress in a Series, Miniseries, or Television Film

Will win:  Penélope Cruz, The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story

Should win: Penélope Cruz, The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story OR Patricia Clarkson, Sharp Objects OR Thandie Newton, Westworld

Dark Horse:  Yvonne Strahovski, The Handmaid’s Tale

This is, quite possibly, the most competitive category of the entire award show.  And, yet again, another reason why it’s absurd that the Golden Globes don’t split their supporting television categories.  Alex Borstein and Thandie Newton both have the upper hand in this category since they both won Emmys in the supporting actress categories in comedy and drama, respectively. But their recent Emmy wins could cancel them out, making way for either Penélope Cruz or Patricia Clarkson to nab the award.  I’m going with Penélope though since she was robbed of the Emmy.  I am hoping for an Emmy win for Patricia Clarkson come September.

Best Miniseries or Television Film

Will win:  The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story

Should win:  The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story

Dark Horse:  A Very English Scandal

Riveting from start to finish with stunning performances from the cast, Versace is a lock.  In any other year, I’d give it to Sharp Objects but the show also lagged a bit.  If I hadn’t read the book, I might have been bored.  The series was more of a performance piece for the actors instead of being a masterpiece as a whole.  Versace has it all.  And, of course, it’s another Ryan Murphy masterpiece.  

Andy Samberg and Sandra Oh host the 76th Golden Globe Awards on Sunday, January 6 at 8 pm EST/5:00 pm PST.

[tooneysunited]

I dont particularly like emma hayes, Chelsea are only as successful as they have been because of the money the club puts into them and often media makes it out like it's all down to her which I think is what puts me off her, but I will say this to her credit. Her in game management is brilliant. And when you compare the like of skinner to her the difference is night and day! Today 2 subs at halftime and a different formation, instantly changed the game! The last day they played, wasn't working, brought on cuthbert at half time and they went from having no shots on target in the first half to have one on target minutes into the second half. The cup semi against arsenal looked like it was gonna be arsenals day the first 15 or 20 minutes but they rode out the storm, kept themselves in it and again made the necessary changes EARLY enough for them to actully have an effect and they ended up running away with it. And if skinner wasn't taking notes from what she did today then all is "lessons to take" chat is nothing but BS.

yeah i agree the english media overhype her and act like she's the messias of women's football. it was so funny when barca totally outplayed them last year, they didn't know what hit them 😭

also agree that her in game management is mostly good, today she totally outclassed skinner in the second half. skinner's in game management is non existent, and if that doesn't change we have a big problem. the ability to that can win you games like today. also sick of the ''we're learning, making progress'' bs. we actually haven't learned at all bc we keep repeating the same mistakes.

[losille2000]

Christmas Balls, Part I

TITLE: Christmas Balls CHAPTER NUMBER: 2/? AUTHOR: Losille2000 WHICH TOM/CHARACTER: Actor!Tom GENRE: Romance/Fluff/Humor FIC SUMMARY: There comes a time in every dog owner’s life where he must consider neutering his companion. Tom doesn’t want more puppies running around, anyway, so the decision is simple. Bobby, on the other hand, can’t seem to understand why his dad would be so cruel to him. Nobody took his bollocks, did they? How is that fair? Maybe he can convince the nice veterinarian lady to give his dad a taste of his own medicine… RATING: M (let’s be real, there will probably be sexytimes) WARNINGS:  Nothing. AUTHORS NOTES: Thanks for reading!

Previous Chapters: Prologue - Also on AO3!!

Part I

Tom figured he was probably the worst dog parent known to mankind. Instead of fretting all day about how his precious pooch was doing in surgery, he found his mind wandering repeatedly to the woman slicing and severing and sewing him up.

And, to top it all off, his excitement to pick up Bobby had little to do with warm puppy cuddles or anything even remotely fatherly. It had everything to do with seeing Ivy again.

 It had been a long time.

Too long, if he were being honest.

Five years, by his count.

She was still the same old Ivy, bright and bubbly, gorgeous and curvy, the latter of which had only filled out in the time since they’d last been in the same room with each other at her brother’s moving-to-Australia party.  Of course, she hadn’t always been such a looker; in fact, when he first became friends with her brother, Archie, at Eton and joined the Hayes family on a holiday in Majorca the same summer, she’d been nothing but the annoying little sister, two years his junior.

 She had big eighties-style plastic glasses and a penchant for memorizing Star Wars dialogue, while he, at the ripe old age of thirteen, tried desperately to distance himself from such associations. And then, to make matters worse for her, early puberty tragically catapulted her toward bad acne and greasy hair; he had no time for her and all the time in the world for the buxom Spanish beauties sunning themselves on the glittering island shores.

 Things had changed for her, slowly at first, and then they lost touch when her parents sent her to a boarding school in Scotland. Eventually, she showed up at Cambridge with an amazing rack, a pouty smile and the biggest, most come-hither doe eyes he’d ever seen on a woman. If any of those features had grown any larger, they would most assuredly become ridiculously cartoonish in a Disney sense, but they’d stalled at just the right proportions to make her the talk of Pembroke College.

 Because of course she had to choose Pembroke while he was still there, so he had to watch her gallivanting through the dining hall and around campus, trailed by a whole gang of silly young boys that set his teeth on edge. She was like the freaking Pied Piper of Pembroke; perhaps more St Patrick, for most of those boys were slithery little snakes and treated her terribly.

 Not that he had anything really to say about it, though Archie had insisted he watch out for Ivy. Which he did, but if there was one thing Ivy did not need, it was a bodyguard. Because he’d never seen a woman put another man in his place as quickly or as viciously as she could. When it was all said and done, Tom thought it was probably a good thing God had graced her with a steel will in addition to her voluptuous exterior. She needed something to protect herself from too much hurt, especially seeing as she was also the type of person to fall too quickly into and out of love, both with people and places.

 Which was why he hadn’t seen her much since he graduated from university. After her own commencement, she traveled the world on humanitarian missions providing veterinary care to farm animals and pets alike, but not for some all consuming need to save the world. Obviously, her want to help the less fortunate was a cornerstone to her personality. However, the moving around bit had more to do with her unwillingness to be pinned down in one place for very long without an out.

 It made him suspicious, then, that she had returned to London to eventually take over her father’s practice. This wasn’t some position she could easily abandon; the practice had been going for some forty years since her father started it, with a list of long time clients. Had she finally reached the point of settling down?

 And if she was settling down, what was he going to do with that information?

 Apparently, he was going to invite her to move in with him like a good friend because he didn’t want to see someone forced to live with their parents any longer than they actually had to. Phyllis and Graham were lovely people, but they certainly had their troubles with a daughter who, by their standards, was a wild child.

 To put his foolhardy plan into action, he held off returning for Bobby until later, far past the three o’clock retrieval time, closer to six when the clinic closed because he wanted to talk with her. Maybe invite her back so she could see the room he had available—the one that had once been a previous flat mate’s, but had since been empty. Then he could spring his idea on her, and hope she didn’t take it the wrong way, like he was trying to get into her trousers.

 Which he totally wasn’t, because he was a gentleman. And she’d just got out of a relationship. Right?

 Phyllis greeted him with a smile when he walked into the clinic from the darkening street outside. “Ye certainly waited long enough!”

 Tom smiled at the woman who was more like a second mum to him than anything. As it turned out, Dr. Hayes, the elder, got on with Dr. Hiddleston, his father, like a house on fire after their boys had become friends. From that point forward, their families’ fates were sealed. His mum and Phyllis traveled together. His da and Dr. Hayes often went cigar smoking at the club they both belonged to, if they weren’t back in Scotland for an early tee time.

 And Emma and Ivy had become best friends.

 Which made inviting Ivy to live with him a no-brainer, really. With Christmas coming up, it would make more sense for her to be around; though Dr. and Mrs. Hayes planned to travel to Australia to visit Archie for the holiday, Tom parents’ wouldn’t hear of Ivy being left alone. It was a perfect situation!

 “Yeah, I had some things to do,” he lied through his teeth. At the moment, he had nothing on his schedule but relaxation.

 Phyllis grinned at him like she could see straight through his flimsy excuse. “Well, he ought tae be rarin’ to go by now. Let me see.”

 She picked up the phone and dialed an extension before she spoke into it to say that Bobby’s owner had arrived. He took a seat in the waiting area as Phyllis answered several calls in quick succession; the door from the back opened up and he stood, expecting to find Ivy, but felt immediate disappointment when it was one of the other vet nurses.

 He did, to his credit, forget about Ivy the instant he spied the pitiful expression on Bobby’s face. Was it possible for dogs to have so many expressions? Because this one about broke Tom’s heart, and the opaque white cone around his neck didn’t help the image at all, either. On his right front arm was a blue bandage wrapped all the way around. Bobby only let out a little whimper and shook his tail a bit, but wasn’t his usual energetic spaniel self.

 Oh, God. What had he done to his poor child?

 “Hello, Mr. Hiddleston,” the tech said. He looked at her name badge—it read NICOLE. He’d not met or seen her the last two times he’d been in with Bobby. She was also, apparently, a fan of some sort. He could read that thousand watt smile with no trouble. It was the “on the edge of freaking out” grin. “Here he is,” she said, handing the puppy over to him.

 Tom took the bundle of fur from her arms, gingerly wrapping his own arms around the warm puppy to snuggle him close. Bobby released a heavy sigh and set his head on Tom’s shoulder, sounding thoroughly dejected by the whole experience. However, Tom took it as a win that his poor pup still liked him enough to want to be cuddled.

 “These are his meds,” Nicole said, holding out a bag with a folded piece of paper in it. “There are detailed directions inside, but we recommend the Tramadol for pain every twelve hours with food, at least for the first few days. Afterward, you can give it at your discretion, but it won’t hurt to give him the full course and on schedule. Better to keep the pain away completely than let it creep up and have to battle it.”

 “Will he… will he be in that much pain?” Tom asked, suddenly beside himself. He knew, logically, the procedure wouldn’t be painless, but it hadn’t connected until that moment, at least, that it would continue to hurt for a little while.

 Nicole giggled and reached out to give Bobby a little scritch. “Every dog is different. He’s not been very whiny, so he seems like he’ll take it on the chin like a proper Englishman.”

 “Well, good.” Tom bent his head and looked down at the puppy lounging in his arms. “And the bandage?”

 “Take it off when you get home, but just make sure he doesn’t chew or lick at his leg,” she said. “The IV cath was in there, so now that it’s out it shouldn’t bother him, but you never know with little ones. Other than that, he’ll probably sleep the rest of the night. Give him a light meal tonight with his meds… and you can return to regular feeding in the morning. Limit rough playtime and jumping for the next fortnight.”

 Tom’s head was spinning with all the information. He could barely do this with one puppy. How could people with human babies take care of their own flesh and blood without completely losing it, forgetting something, or being a good parent? Yeesh.

 He began to thank Nicole, but paused when the door to the back rooms burst open. Ivy hustled out, throwing a coat on over a slim black skirt and an ivory cashmere sweater that did nothing to hide her amazing figure—certainly different from her hospital-blue scrubs from earlier. She set a leather bag and a purse on the counter and hastily shoved her arms through both coat armholes.

 “Och, Mum, I’m so late,” she exclaimed. “Why didn’t you give me a warning call?”

 “I did, Ivy. Ye told me ye were in th’ middle of expressing anal glands,” Phyllis replied, her voice censuring.

 That did not sound pleasant. But for some reason, the thought of Ivy’s delicate, fine-boned fingers in the arsehole of an animal made him laugh. She’d never been overly girly, refraining from getting down and dirty, but that thought placed her on another level.

 Ivy mumbled something before turning in his direction. “I don’t need to hear it from you, either, Thomas. Watch it or I’ll express your anal glands.”

 Tom sucked in a breath, wondering if he would actually mind that. Sadly, and almost abhorrently, he could think of worse things that could happen to him; if she were near the prostate, well, then all bets were off.

 “Ivy Margaret Hayes, I’ll nae have that gab in this office!” Phyllis scolded. “I dinnae care how old ye are or if ye outrank me. He is a client.”

 Ivy rolled her eyes at her mother and wrapped a thick woolen scarf the same shade as her brown eyes around her neck. She set her hands flat on the counter and pushed herself up enough to lean over the thing without going around—Tom marveled at the strength that must have required—and then planted a kiss on her mother’s cheek. “I’ll be back later. My meeting shouldn’t go too late tonight, I hope.”

 Phyllis smiled and grabbed her daughter’s cheeks in her hands, giving her a kiss in return. “I hope this is the one you’re looking for.”

 “You and me both,” Ivy huffed and settled back on her heeled feet. The shoes only accentuated the smooth, long muscles in her calves. He never realized she was that much into fitness, nor that her legs looked that good.

 Okay, maybe he had noticed the latter, but on his list of preferred physical attributes, legs were not at the top.  He thought about amending that list now, though. Now that he’d had a good look, he wondered what hers would feel like wrapped and clenching around his hips.

 Which was exactly the last thing he needed to be thinking about Ivy Hayes. If they were going to live together, he couldn’t think of her as a sexual object. That was off limits. She was persona non-grata where that was concerned.

 She grabbed her bags and tossed them on her shoulder, waving at Nicole and him. “I’ll see you tomorrow, Nicole. Please make sure Dusty ate his food before you leave, and if he doesn’t, take the bowl out and note it.”

 “I will, Doctor,” Nicole said.

 He almost let Ivy escape before he remembered why he’d come around so late. Tom thanked Nicole and Phyllis and jumped out the shop door just as a cab pulled up to the curb and Ivy reached for the handle to let herself inside the vehicle.

“Ivy! Wait!” he called.

 Ivy’s back straightened, and she turned around stiffly to look at him. “Tom, I’m really, really late.”

 “I know. Just give me a few minutes?” he pleaded. He pointed at the black Jaguar parked two cars down the road. “I can give you a lift for your time.”

 She groaned and slumped her shoulders, looking inside the cab at the driver. “I’m sorry, I guess I’m going with him.”

 The cabbie nodded and zoomed off into traffic again with a squeal of his tires.  Tom sighed and readjusted Bobby in his arms, realizing the increasingly heavy animal had officially fallen asleep.  Ivy marched down the pavement to his car and stood beside the passenger door, turning to look at him expectantly.

 “Come on! I need to go!”

 “Right!” He strode down the street and unlocked the doors as he went. Ivy heard the click and slid easily into her side before he even had to opportunity to open the rear door and position Bobby on the blanket he’d laid there earlier for the ride home.  When everyone was finally settled, he turned the ignition and looked at her. “Where am I taking you?”

 She held her mobile up at him. “Go toward Primrose Hill. What did you need me for?”

 Something very crass played at the tip of his tongue, but he succeeded—barely—in holding it back. Instead, he looked askance at her, keeping his eyes on the road as he began the short trip toward Primrose. “About your living situation.”

 “Oh, that,” she said, relaxing into her seat, as though she thought what he wanted to talk to her about would be upsetting. What did she think? There was going to be something unpleasant he wanted to talk to her about? “Hopefully it’s all sorted after my meeting. You’re taking me to meet my estate agent at a flat.”

 “Oh.” He pressed his lips together and squinted out the window, even though there was no sun and none of the street lamps were particularly bright.

 Ivy sighed, then breathed in deeply. She shut her eyes for a moment and a smile played on her lips. “This is a nice car. I like this car.”

 “I’m glad,” he replied.

 “Totally beats the rust buckets I’m used to in the field,” she said. “And it makes me feel like a Bond girl.”

 Tom muffled a growl, but she simply laughed at him. Of course, she’d poke fun at him whenever she got the chance. It seemed to be her favorite thing to do whenever he was around. But, he played along. “I’m a villain, darling. Not a hero.”

 “I’ve always known that,” she remarked, smoothing her hands down her skirt-covered thighs.

 He nearly swerved into an oncoming vehicle with his attention on her knees, not on the windscreen. With concerted effort, he glued his attention forward, gripped the steering wheel harder. The leather stretched, the sound audible in the quiet car.

 “Drive much?” she teased.

 “Shut up.”

 Ivy laughed at him. “By the way, Bobby is amazing. I love him. I thought about stealing him.”

 “Yeah?” For some reason, that made his heart five times as large as normal, and his chest puffed up to accommodate the needed space.

 “I just can’t believe you got one,” she said. “Aren’t you on the go all the time? Traveling all over isn’t fun when you’ve got dependents.”

 Tom shrugged. “I know it’s not exactly right, but with the appropriate service animal designations, he can travel when and where I want him to travel. But the only places I would take him would be the US or Europe. Otherwise, he’ll stay home.”

 “I always wondered how celebrities did it with pets. I thought it was something like that,” she said. “I heard Henry Cavill does that with his dog.”

 Tom hummed. “A fan of old Henry’s, huh?”

 Ivy grinned. “Have you seen him?”

 “I have,” he replied, suddenly feeling let down, somehow. Henry was a perfectly decent guy, based on the few times he’d met the man, but he was just like all the others Ivy dated. Well, all the others that he knew of—stupidly handsome, built, and haughty. Most of the time, Tom was none of those things.

 Not that it mattered, of course.

 Ivy shrugged a shoulder and glanced at him. “Too much for me to handle, though. Too pretty. Too much work.”

 Tom laughed at her. “I’m detecting a very strong manhater vibe. Is your break up recent?”

 “No,” she said. “We were done a year ago, and I stayed on at the clinic he owned for the following year. Like an idiot, I thought we could continue working together despite the end of our relationship. I ended up wanting to smack him every time he hit on a new client or a nurse. And I don’t ‘hate’ men. I love men. The problem is that men don’t love me, they just want to sleep with me. Then they get bored. I get bored.”

 He almost confirmed that he understood why, but that was also insensitive… and not to mention completely uncalled for when it came to a friend. Was she a friend? She was a family friend, sure. They were friendly with each other. But he couldn’t really say they’d ever been “friends” as the term was strictly applied. Even at university, with him running guys off her, she didn’t want to be around him. She wanted nothing to do with him, and fairly, he hadn’t wanted anything to do with her, concerned as he was with his own life.

 But somehow, this time, he felt different. He wanted to be her friend. Honestly, the bit about boredom? It sounded like she was speaking directly from his own thoughts. He was bored, too. Bored of different beds and different women on a remarkably quick timetable. He wanted something solid and real, based on him. Not on how he looked or what he did for a living.

 “Turn left here,” she said, breaking his thoughts. “Just up there on the right, he’s waiting for me out front.”

 Tom followed her directions and slowed to a stop on the busy street lined with buildings full of flats. The street parking was completely full, so she jumped out of the car quickly, with gratitude on her lips. He meant to go on, but stopped when he realized he hadn’t even mentioned why he wanted to talk to her.

 “Hey, Ivy!” he called from the open window.

 She froze and spun around, looking down at the line of cars stopped behind him, angrily inching forward in a passive-aggressive attempt to get him to move on. “What?”

 “I meant to ask—want to move in with me?”

 Ivy nearly doubled over in laughter. “Good one, Tom. We’d drive each other up a wall in an hour.”

 “Bet me!”

 “You’re holding up traffic,” she said. “The Fuzz will be on you in no time.”

 Tom glanced in the rearview mirror. There weren’t any flashing lights yet, but the line of cars continued to grow. Horns tooted as a polite, very British reminder of their passive aggressiveness. “Then say you’ll move in with me.”

 “I don’t even know what you’re thinking or offering or anything!” she yelled. “And I might like this place!”

 “If you don’t, then we’ll talk,” he said.

 Ivy shook her head and rolled her eyes. “I’ll call tomorrow to check up on Bobby and then I’ll let you know what happened, alright?”

 Tom waved at her. “Look forward to it!”

 He then waved at the person sitting in the vehicle behind him before moving off down the road. He was fairly certain the car that zoomed around him and sailed past shot him a dirty look and a backward peace sign with his fingers, but Tom shrugged it all off.

 Mission accomplished.

 Sorta.

[danishph10fan]

So apparently Tumblr and long asks are not my friend today… so this seemed like the easiest way around that 🤷‍♀️😂

Interviewer: Talk a bit about your own situation. You’ve been out for sometime. You didn’t join up with the national team during this international break. So your physical form, where are you at at the moment?

P: I am well on my way back. If I can say it like that. I’ve stepped up the intensity during the international break where I had some time without stressing to make it back onto the pitch. And now I’m back on the pitch training again. So that’s nice.

I: That’s nice to hear. It’s a big match ahead of you, an FA cup final. A match that can bring your first FA cup trophy. How are you looking forward to it?

P: It’s going to be a massive match. There’s going to be 50,000 people or so, I’ve heard. And against arsenal. They seems to be our arch nemesis this year. So it’s going to be a big match. And of course I hope I can be a part of it. But we’ll see. It’s going to be a good game.

I: I think it’s one of those matches you want to play, not just because of the 50,000 fans I would also because it’s at this enormous stadium. Have you thought about the experience it is going to be?

P: I haven’t really thought about the fact that it’s at Wembley, but of course I’ve heard a lot about Wembley. So I am looking forward to being there, getting a sense of how it is to be there and play there.

I: Something a little special about this game, is it is last year‘s tournament. So that gives you the possibility to win the national treble. Is that something you thought about in the team?

P: We want to win all the titles we can. So of course we want to win. But we haven’t really talked about the fact that if we win it we will win the treble, but we will do everything we can to win every possible title.

I: And a match against Arsenal that, like you, have started to pull away in the league table. Does it affect the game that it is potentially also going to be a title run between you and them?

P: I think it’s going to be a really good game. Arsenal has been looking really good this year. They brought in some really good players, generally have a really good team, and now a really good coach. So yeah they’re looking really good, and I think it’s going to be an exciting match to watch. A good match. And it looks like it is going to be them that we compete for the leage title with, so there’s gonna be some good match up with them also throughout the rest of the season.

I: You lost the first game of the season to them. What do you think has changed in your team since then?

P: We are at a much better point. So we are going to be a way different team. Even back then it was a quite even game. But we were at a better point at the moment. Way better shape. Last time we played against Arsenal we had a lot of players returning from the Olympics, we don’t anymore. So yeah, we are at a good point.

I: Compared to the last game where you lost 3 to 2, what it is if you need to do to succeed and you are the ones who are gonna end up lifting the trophy?

P: We are definitely more defensively solid. Going into the season we started with a new formation, that by now we’ve had a chance to really train and improve. So our defense is a lot stronger. Offensively speaking, we have to play quickly, use our pace to find spaces. have a higher intensity in our game compared to the last. That’s for sure.

I: Now that you mentioned it yourself, this three at the back formation, what has it done to your game?

P: It has meant that I’ve been more comfortable in this 10 position. With wingbacks pushing forward and keeping the width, so that I have space in the middle.

I: Emma Hayes has spoken out and said did you found your place this season. Can you feel you’ve had the time to settle?

P: Of course. It takes some time to be completely comfortable on the pitch, off the pitch, before you get to know everyone on the team and around the team. Before you feel comfortable enough to get the best out of yourself. It takes some time. But I really feel I’m there at the moment. I’ve settled in really well.

I: As mentioned you were playing against Arsenal, and there is a potential Danish matchup if you and Simone are going to play. Is that something you thought about?

P: No. We talked a bit about it the other day Boye and I. But when you’re on the pitch you don’t really think about who you’re playing against, to be completely honest.

I: Don’t you think about it a little bit? I saw that you were watching the Denmark Russia game together the other day.

P: no we were just joking a little bit about it. We never talk seriously about it.

Usually pretty up to date with the discussion, so I did not miss Scandy fight club 😂 Just trying to save my insults and chaos till I need it to hide the fact that I offered to translate 😂😂 (give me 20 and I’ll translate the whole thing, np ) 😜

🇩🇰 joke about 🇳🇴, like why does 🇳🇴 burry their dead ass up?

Anxious anon, I bake/ cook to cope… currently have an apple pie and pork roast in the oven 🤷‍♀️

Set piece, Sam Kerr⚽️

Did not grow up bilingual, would have loved that too… living in an other country while still relatively young + not dubbing everything tv show helped me a bit 😂

See, pretty up to date I think 😇

you're indeed very up to date, I'm impressed 😂I am honoured that you've been reading enough of my chaotic content to get all that :)