#wsl returns this friday

[pernillecfcw]

Prepping for Friday night under the lights 💙

[lostinwoso]

My Birthday is on Friday, would you write a jessie fleming one where the Team finds out their dating. Maybe reader moves clubs so they can spend more time together.

Only if you would like, no worries 🤍

Finally Together (Jessie Fleming x Reader)

A/N: HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I hope you have an amazing day! (Save me a drink)

When Jessie and you started dating, you two agreed to keep it quiet between you both, wanting to figure out if this would work out before other people get included.

It didn't take long for you two to find out that the relationship between you both works out great, but you still never got to the point of informing your respective teammates around you about it.

And for you, it seems like you won't even get to that. A call from your agent earlier informed you that Chelsea is interested in signing you, and that your club already seemed to have agreed to let you leave if you want to go.

Jessie and you often talked about how nice it would be if you two would be at the same club or at least one closer to one another, so when you got the call, it was a no-brainer for you to agree to play for Chelsea.

You decided to break the news to your girlfriend at one of your daily FaceTime calls.

"I got some news.", you tell her, after you both informed each other about your day.

You can see Jessie raise her eyebrows on the little screen, "Good news?", she wonders.

"I would say so, yea.", you reply shrugging your shoulders, "Then let's hear it.".

"I'm leaving my club.", you tell her, and you can see the confusion on her face, you always seemed happy at your club, so why would you consider leaving it as good news?

"I thought you liked playing there, how is that good news?".

"I'm leaving for a club in the WSL.", your words seem to take a moment for Jessie to wrap her head around, "You what? We finally will be in the same country?", she rushes excited out after a moment.

Nodding your head in answer, a grin spreads on her face, "That's amazing, wait, what club tho?", she asks, wanting to know how close exactly you two would be to one another.

You just send her a grin, confusing her for a moment before she understands, "No way! No damn way!", she almost yells out.

"Yes way!", you laugh out, "You are going to join me here at Chelsea?", the emotions in her words are clear, it almost sounds too good to be true.

Nodding your head again, you reply, "Yes, we will be together at Chelsea.", tears of happiness building in both your eyes, not believing that you would finally be close to each other.

___

The next day, when Jessie walked into the training facility, everyone was able to tell that something was going on, because the girl couldn't stop smiling the entire day and seemed more chatty than usual.

"What is up with you today? I have never seen you this happy before.", Magda asks the Canadian, who in return shrugs her shoulders, "It's just a really nice day today.", her smile not faltering once, while she packs her training bag up after a successful session.

Magda shares a look with Pernille when the young midfielder walks out of the locker room to go home, yelling, "Goodbye!", over her shoulder before disappearing from their sight, "That was weird.", the defender mutters to herself before packing her own stuff up.

___

The weeks leading up to where the transfer would finally be confirmed were spent with Jessie telling you about all the plans she already made for the both of you and what places you have to see.

A few days later you were now in London, getting a tour from one of the Chelsea training stuff before it was time to get introduced to the team as their new teammate.

When it was time for that, the team got called together after the end of the training session, Jessie of course knew what was about to happen and due to not being able to meet up before you would be introduced she could barely contain her excitement to finally see you again.

Magda puts her arm around her shoulder, "Calm down, you seem like you are about to take off, what's going on, you already were like that a few weeks ago?", she questions, again curious about what could cause the out of character behavior from Jessie.

Before she can receive any answers, you walk out onto the field, Jessie's smile getting even bigger. Magda notices this and shares a questioning look between you two, catching the smile you send the Canadian.

"Everyone this is Y/N, she will be joining us here, please make her feel welcomed.", the trainer introduces you, quickly getting swarmed by your new teammates after who are eager to meet you.

Saving Jessie for last, you pull her into a big hug, but making sure not to stay too long before it could cause speculations among the team. But Magda already has her eyes on the both of you, wondering if there could be something between you two with the way the midfielder behaved.

___

A few weeks pass and Jessie and you seemed to be attached to each other, where one you were, the other wouldn't be far either, causing some teasing and questioning from your teammates, which you two would always try to ignore.

It's not that you two weren't ready to tell them that you were dating, you just didn't know how and when.

However, it seems like that you wouldn't even need to tell them after a slip up from you two.

It was team movie night, and it was Jessie's and yours turn to host said evening. Since the team had a busy week, you two almost forgot about that until one of the girls, send a text saying they will be there at 6.

In panic, you two realize that there wouldn't be enough snacks and drinks for everyone, so you decided to go out and buy some more while Jessie cleaned the apartment up a little.

Thanks to the traffic, it takes you a little longer to get to the store and back home but when you do arrive you set your keys down with a sigh, "I'm back love!".

Your eyebrows furrow in confusion when you don't receive an answer, walking into the living room, you are surprised by the sight of all your teammates already sitting there. Glancing at the clock on the wall, you realize that it's already past 6, "Oh.".

Locking eyes with Jessie, you send her an apologetic look, before chaos broke out.

"Love?"

"You two are dating?" . - "Are you really surprised?", "I mean no but.."

"Knew it! Pay up Niamh!", turning to look at Sam you send her a look, "Really, you bet on us?", the forward shrugs her shoulder, deadpanning, "Yea, it was obvious.".

Seeing that some of your teammates were ready to continuing the questions, you speak up, "Yes, Jessie and are dating, can we all calm down again now?".

"For how long?", Pernille asks, curious about how long you two have kept this a secret for.

Jessie decides to answer that one, "Almost two years.", "You managed to keep this a secret for two years? -Damn."

"Any more questions or can we finally start the movie?", you ask into the round, and almost immediately hands shot up, wanting to ask more about. Sighing, you realize that it might now take a while before you could actually start the movie night.

___

After a few more questions, you actually did watch a movie, which ended moments ago, so everyone is getting ready to leave, when Magda speaks up, "I knew you were behaving weird, you two are cute together though.", causing Jessie to blush as you were not there to hear the words, muttering a, "Thank you.", when they hug before everyone leaves.

Closing the door, you turn to Jessie, "I'm sorry, I thought it wasn't that late yet.", your girlfriend sends you a smile, pulling you into her, "It's okay, it was hilarious seeing their reactions, actually.", she admits.

Laughing quietly when you remember their expressions when you walked in, you agree, "It was funny, I still can't believe Sam bet on us.", "It's Sam what did you expect?", she asks you, causing you to shrug your shoulders.

"I don't know but what I do know is that I need some sleep after that interrogation earlier.", you yawn, "Alright let's get to bed then.", Jessie says, pulling you towards your shared bedroom.

[ratherembarrassing]

2023: this week month

spring has sprung! i'm confusedly walking around my apartment in socks and shorts and a hoodie, there is light in the sky at 6pm, my three plants are thriving (although that has more to do with no longer being in a house where they got exactly zero sunlight, a metaphor i try not to look too closely towards). i'm going to pick this back up as a weekly thing again.

i bought a couch! i no longer feel like i'm living in a weirdly furnished air bnb. i picked the couch after seeing it in the apartment of a youtuber. i love it so much.

thee margot robbie bingewatch of 2023: lord, she is in some movies. but then i went to youtube and it knew what i'd been up to and gave me this, which is without a doubt the greatest thing that has ever happened to me personally. the way her accent disintegrates in the last 15 seconds is amazing.

sportsball part 1: most of the month was, of course, wwc. i remain devastated etc, but in the final weeks my rl friends group accidentally became invested and i have herded them into potential interest in club leagues. i cannot wait for wsl and alw to kick off.

sportsball part 2: this weekend aflw returned. port adelaide promptly lost to the crows, and backup team the bulldogs got demolished. so you know. suffering as usual.

the nephew is super into one piece, and i had promised to watch the anime months ago. so i have started that instead of giving in to tumblr's incessant advertising. it took three episodes, but it's cute as hell and i get why he likes it.

i continue to force an episodes of the bear on myself from time to time. guys, why.

mr hozier's new album is lovely, but i hate the cover art so much.

on friday night i rallied and ate a delightful three course meal inside a video installation dome. always say yes to doing weird things.

who am i really kidding, all i've really done all month is read every barbie/gloria fic on ao3. every few hours i open the tab, hit refresh, and about one in ten times i am rewarded and i clap like a seal.

[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

Source link

[fawsldaily]

The Women’s Super League is highly likely to be cancelled following the cancellation of League Two.

Telegraph Sport understands that the Football Association and clubs view the costs of finishing the remaining 82 WSL and Championship games - including wages but particularly coronavirus testing kits - as too prohibitive. Calls took place on Friday afternoon with players, clubs and representatives from the Professional Football Association. Further calls with clubs are expected to follow on Monday, after which the decision may be announced formally.

Telegraph Sport reported on Thursday that there was a growing acceptance among clubs that the league was more likely to be cancelled than go ahead. Championship club Lewes calculated earlier this week that the cost of completing the remaining games - including the expense of coronavirus testing - would be £3 million, a drop in the ocean for men’s football but a figure that eclipses the annual budget of most women’s teams. Many clubs had planned for their women’s players to return to training later this month.

It is unclear how the season will be decided, although League Two clubs voted on Friday to end the season, deciding the outcome through points per game while retaining the play-offs.

There is already no relegation from the Women’s Championship following the FA’s decision to void tiers three and below in the women’s game. The league’s leaders, Aston Villa, are currently seven points clear of Sheffield United in second.

The Women’s Super League is less clear-cut. Manchester City are top and a point ahead of Chelsea but have played a game more. Arsenal are four points behind the leaders with a game in hand. Two Champions League spots are still up for grabs and there is no guarantee yet that there will not be relegation.

[the-necessary-unnecessary]

all these NWSL players going to England, they're playing in the champions league this year? or is it something else? I'm know absolutely nothing about WSL, guess I gotta learn now

okay so let’s do a little champions league recap! So basically the UEFA Women’s Champions League (UWCL) has a deceiving name since it’s not a league but rather a tournament which the best teams of each country’s league play in every year. So basically you have the Women’s Super League (WSL) in England as your usual league, quite similar to the NWSL, and then the top 2 teams from this - and three starting next year - qualify to play in the Champions League. This for now is a knockout tournament which all European leagues send teams to participate in in rounds spread out throughout the year to compete for being crowned the best team in Europe. If you’re confused by my explanation or just want to know more then I recommend browsing through the official site for more details.

Now for as to who is playing in it this year. Basically the 2019/20 UWCL was not able to finish because of, you guessed it, corona. It was down to the quarterfinals so only 8 teams left but it had to be postponed. It is these last few matches of last season’s tournament that are about to be played starting Friday. The teams that are left are FC Barcelona, Atletico de Madrid (both Spanish and qualified last year as runner up and league winner in 2018/19 respectively), VFL Wolfsburg, FC Bayern Munich (German and again league winner and runner up of the 2018/19 season), Lyon, PSG (French and same here) and Arsenal (English team who was the league winner in that season). All other teams that participated - 62 in total when counting preliminary rounds - have been knocked out by this point. These quarterfinals, semifinals and finals will be played out over a span of 10 days over the coming 2 weeks. So far, the only previous NWSL player who has signed for one of these clubs already and is hence eligible to play is Ellie Carpenter for Lyon but she didn’t even stick around for the Challenge Cup. 

All other players, namely uswnt ones, have so far signed for clubs that are not in the rounds that remain of last year’s Champions League but will be in the one for this upcoming 2020/21 season. After having placed second in last season’s WSL, Man City have qualified for the UWCL so both Lavelle and Mewis will be able to play here. Kopparbergs/Göteborg FC also came in second in the 2019 season of the Swedish Damallsvenskan league (they have a summer league like the NWSL) so Sonnett shall also be playing in the CL next year. We might even be able to see some cross-league uswnt battles! However if Press and Heath sign for Manchester United they would not be playing champions league football this season as the team only came fourth (it’s also important to note though that this was their inaugural season in the top flight of english women’s football). But, and especially as in the 2021/22 tournament the WSL will have three champions league qualification spots, they will be helping the team try and secure one of those places for next season.

Hope this rough outline helped and I’m more than willing to answer any more questions - might do a more WSL focused one too if this one is actually helpful. Anyways, welcome to the champions league and European women’s football in general, I hope you fall in love with it to stay even after players return to the NWSL :))

[thesurfsoup]

World's Best Surfers Begin Championship Chase in 50th Edition of Billabong Pipe Masters Pres. by Hydro Flask  • Brazil's High-Flying Italo Ferreira Looks To Secure His Second Consecutive World Title • Hawaii’s John John Florence Sets Sights on Third World Title After Returning From Injury • Sign-up for WSL CT Fantasy and Pick Your Team • More Available at WorldSurfLeague.com BANZAI PIPELINE, Oahu, Hawaii/USA (Wednesday, December 2, 2020) - The kickoff to the World Surf League (WSL) 2021 Championship Tour (CT) is days away and the WSL's official Fantasy Surfing game is now live. With the Maui Pro presented by ROXY opening ‪this Friday, Dec. 4‬, and the Billabong Pipe Masters in Memory of Andy Irons presented by Hydro Flask opening ‪Tuesday, Dec. 8‬, there are only a few days left to register for WSL CT Fantasy. The Road to the WSL FInals Starts Now The Billabong Pipe Masters in Memory of Andy Irons presented by Hydro Flask is celebrating its 50th edition as the world’s best male surfers arrive on the seven-mile miracle known as Oahu’s North Shore. After nearly a year since the last CT event, an international field of top surfers are anxious to kick off the tour in one of the most challenging and preeminent waves on the planet – the Banzai Pipeline. Pictured: The Billabong Pipe Masters in Memory of Andy Irons presented by Hydro Flask opens ‪December 8, 2020‬, at Banzai Pipeline, Oahu, Hawaii. Credit: © WSL @WSL https://www.instagram.com/p/CIWYEI8JsL4/?igshid=7uh5z4h9xo01

[leitch]

It has been five years since my Illini last played in a bowl game, the Heart of Dallas Bowl back in 2014. That was a miserable game: Illinois got crushed, nobody cared, and you can see in the stands how crowded it was. I still loved every minute of it. I know there’s a ton of Actually Important college football stuff happening this weekend, but on Sunday (or maybe Monday), I’ll find out where Illinois is playing in a bowl game. I cannot wait. Illinois in a bowl game!

Here are this week’s stories:

MONDAY The Thirty: Every Team’s Best Player in 2020 (MLB.com)

TUESDAY The Return of the Sports Scolds (New York)

WEDNESDAY It's Time to Admit That This Georgia Season Just Hasn't Been That Much Fun. But Then Again: It's Just Getting Started (WSLS) Debate Club: Star Wars Characters Who Deserve Spinoffs (SYFY Wire)

THURSDAY Mookie Betts Trade Power Rankings (MLB.com)

FRIDAY Data Decade: The Most Shocking Events of the 2010s (MLB.com) Scarlett Johansson Rankings (Vulture) Craggs & Leitch: On Illinois Basketball (Smile Politely)

PODCASTS

Grierson & Leitch (subscribe in iTunes) "Knives Out,” “Queen & Slim,” “The Two Popes.”

Waitin’ Since Last Saturday (subscribe in iTunes) Wrapping up Georgia Tech, previewing the SEC Championship Game.

Seeing Red (subscribe in iTunes) No show this week, taping next week.

They’re all laughing at us. Have a great weekend, all, and remember: If I’d limited myself to films about politicians, it would have been a short list: How many characters in any mainstream American movie seem aware of the political process, or belong to a party?

[mewiecrew]

In the conversations Theo is having he seems to just be speculating. He also mentioned OL as an option when it’s clearly not because rose returned as an allocated player and they’re not going to leave her unprotected - and mentioned the WSL which Kristie is not yet eligible for. So it seems he’s just bringing it up since Houston hasn’t made a move yet and need to before Friday.

If Houston was smart they would trade her instead of leave her unprotected. If the rumor is true of her not wanting to be protected. I guess we will see if anything happens from now until Friday. It’ll be interesting that’s for sure

[techcrunchappcom]

New Post has been published on https://techcrunchapp.com/national-night-out-return-to-class/

National Night Out, return to class

The Virginia Department of Health will hold a COVID-19 testing clinic today. To receive a test, you must be showing symptoms or have been in contact with someone with the virus. You can get a test from 9 a.m. to noon at Augusta Health Primary Care in Lexington. You do not need an appointment.

Roanoke City Leaders will unveil a historical marker today, recognizing the Roanoke Life Saving and First Aid Crew. It was formed in May 1928 and is recognized as the first independent, all-volunteer rescue squad in the United States. The marker will be located on Luck Avenue SW.

Lynchburg City School will begin bringing students back into the classroom today. Hybrid instruction begins today for Pre-K through second grade students. Those in group A will be in person Tuesday and tomorrow, with group B returning Thursday and Friday. Third through sixth grade students will return next week with middle and high school students later this month.

Caesars Virginia will hold a virtual employment webinar and information session today. It will feature information about careers and the culture at Caesars Entertainment. You’ll learn about the company and potential employment opportunities. The webinar begins at 5:30 p.m.

School leaders in Danville hold a public meeting, listening to your feedback as they develop a plan to bring students back into the classroom. Tonight’s session is for Schoolfield Elementary School families. It runs from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the G. W. High School Auditorium.

Several communities in Southwest Virginia will celebrate National Night Out. The event is normally held in August to enhance the relationship between communities and law enforcement. The Botetourt County Sheriff’s Office is holding an event in the Fincastle Baptist Church parking lot from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The event will end with fireworks. The Vinton Police Department will hold a Movie Night tonight at 6 p.m. at the Vinton War Memorial. In Lynchburg, the Three Fountains and Maple Ridge Neighborhood Watch Groups in will hold small events starting at 6 p.m. In Radford, you can get free ice cream at the Radford Fire Department from 5 p.m. to 6:14 p.m. or at Bissett Park from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Copyright 2020 by WSLS 10 – All rights reserved.

[wsmith215]

Tottenham confirm one positive test in Premier League’s fifth round of coronavirus testing | Football News

1197 tests were conducted during the fifth round of Premier League coronavirus testing; Tottenham say the individual is “asymptomatic” and will “self-isolate for seven days”

Last Updated: 03/06/20 4:47pm

Premier League players have now undergone five rounds of coronavirus testing

Tottenham have confirmed they have received the only positive test for coronavirus from the fifth round of Premier League testing results.

The fifth batch of tests took place on Monday and Tuesday this week.

A statement from Tottenham read: “We have been informed by the Premier League that we have received one positive test for COVID-19 following the latest round of testing at our Training Centre.

“Due to medical confidentiality, the individual’s name will not be disclosed.

“They are currently asymptomatic and will now self-isolate for seven days, in line with Premier League protocol, before undergoing further testing.

“We shall continue to strictly adhere to the Premier League’s Return to Training protocol, which ensures our Training Centre remains a safe and virus-free working environment.”

It follows the fourth-round results which were published last weekend, in which there were no new positive tests indicated.

A total of 12 individuals tested positive for COVID-19 out of 3882 from the initial four rounds.

All 20 top-flight clubs, who have now returned to close-contact training, are continuing to adhere to the latest medical advice from the Government and Public Health England to enable a phased resumption of sport in the UK, as a return to Premier League matches behind-closed-doors approaches.

March 5 – Pre-match handshakes banned in the Premier League. March 11 – Man City vs Arsenal is first Premier League game suspended; Liverpool vs Atletico Madrid the last top level game played in England. March 12 – Man Utd, Wolves play away Europa League ties behind closed doors, Rangers host Bayer Leverkusen in front of fans. March 13 – Football suspended following an emergency meeting between PL, FA, EFL and WSL April 15 – SPFL clubs approve plan to end the Scottish Championship, League One and league Two seasons. May 15 – League Two clubs vote to end the season with immediate effect. May 17 – Premier League players and staff tested for COVID-19. May 18 – Scottish Premiership curtailed, with points per game determining league positions and Celtic named champions. May 19 – Premier League clubs return to socially distanced group training. May 25 – Women’s Super League cancelled, with title and relegation to be determined. May 27 – Premier League clubs vote to resume contact training.

The Premier League released the following statement on Wednesday regarding the latest test figures: “The Premier League can today confirm that on Monday 1 June and Tuesday 2 June, 1197 players and club staff were tested for COVID-19. Of these, one has tested positive from one club.

“Players or club staff who test positive will now self-isolate for a period of seven days.

“The Premier League is providing this aggregated information for the purposes of competition integrity and transparency. No specific details as to clubs or individuals will be provided by the League and results will be made public after each round of testing.”

If any players from Manchester City or Arsenal, and Aston Villa or Sheffield United return positive tests, it would almost certainly rule them out of the respective teams’ fixtures scheduled for June 17.

‘Project Restart’ rules require a player who returns a positive test to remain away from group activities for 14 days (subject to the return of a negative test).

1:38 West Ham manager David Moyes says playing friendly matches will help his squad’s preparations for the Premier League restart

West Ham manager David Moyes says playing friendly matches will help his squad’s preparations for the Premier League restart

In an exclusive interview with Sky Sports News on Friday, Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said test results from the first three rounds had been “reassuring” and the number of positive cases were at an anticipated level.

Testing will continue on a twice-weekly basis as the resumption of the season moves closer.

PL clubs to meet on Thursday

Premier League clubs will discuss a number of outstanding topics over the logistics of Project Restart at a shareholders’ meeting on Thursday, ahead of a second due to be held on June 11.

The use of neutral venues – which could affect up to five games including the Merseyside derby at present, is on the agenda.

Ongoing questions about the prospect of scrapping relegation, using five substitutes – as the Bundesliga has adopted since its restart – and whether clubs can expand their existing 25-man squads to deal with the intensity of the last nine games of the season are all due to be discussed.

So too will the topic of VAR, which has proved a polarising topic in its first season in the Premier League. FIFA has given leagues the opportunity to scrap its usage upon their restart, but the Premier League wants to keep it – as clubs believe the integrity of the competition would be compromised if VAR was not used for the entire season.

Read more here

The Premier League has set a provisional date of return for June 17, provided all safety tests are cleared, with Sky Sports showing 64 live games, including 25 which will be broadcast free to air.

In addition to the 39 matches scheduled to be broadcast on Sky before the coronavirus interruption, 25 more matches will be available on both Sky Sports Premier League and Sky’s free-to-air Pick channel. Super 6: Bayern To Stay Ruthless?

Do not miss your chance to land the £50,000 jackpot on Saturday. Play for free, entries by 2:30pm.

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The post Tottenham confirm one positive test in Premier League’s fifth round of coronavirus testing | Football News appeared first on The Bleak Report.

from WordPress https://bleakreport.com/tottenham-confirm-one-positive-test-in-premier-leagues-fifth-round-of-coronavirus-testing-football-news/

[fawsldaily]

Women’s clubs and players are growing increasingly frustrated with a lack of clarity from the Football Association around coronavirus, with no further updates about a potential return to play offered at Tuesday’s meeting of Women’s Super League and Championship clubs.

The governing body has held regular consultations with clubs in the top two leagues since play was halted on March 13. In Tuesday’s meeting, they did not provide clubs with specific return dates, nor with a deadline or timeframe during which they plan to reach a decision.

They said that they are speaking to government officials this week about medical protocols, support and the cost of testing. According to one club source, this is “more difficult for women’s football because the money’s not there. It’s now whether the government is able to assist and put a fund together to help clubs to test players so they can bring football back”.

The FA have told clubs that, after those consultations, they should have more information to help them decide whether the league will resume, be voided, or decided on sporting outcomes whereby promotion to and relegation from the WSL remain and champions are crowned. There is then the additional question of whether a sporting outcomes-based approach will mirror the stipulations the FA has imposed on the men’s game: the governing body told the Premier League on Monday that they will not sanction plans to scrap relegation.

The result is that players and clubs feel in limbo, with contracts expiring and parties unable or reluctant to negotiate new deals amid the uncertainty. Some WSL players told Telegraph Sport that they “haven't heard anything” around contracts and are unsure of their clubs’ plans on the issue. Some clubs - including Chelsea and Reading - are understood to have provided players with restart plans or provisional training return dates and Liverpool are preparing for their players to be back in training by the end of this month. But players are aware that the picture is changing rapidly. Brighton and Manchester United are among those currently working through the Government's latest guidance.

“There’s literally no update, which is disappointing because I think everybody - players, staff, executives - is waiting for some sort of decision,” said a source at one club. “A lot of clubs are concerned about players, who are feeling a bit fed up, don’t know what’s going to happen and are asking a lot of questions about their contracts. The nearer we’re getting to June, the more nervous players are getting, particularly players who are out of contract.

“Players are very much the concern. I think a lot of clubs are thinking now, 'just put us out of our misery and decide the league on sporting outcome'. It’s 50-50 whether it continues or not: on what basis will it be cancelled?

“I think there are a lot of clubs that want to continue, but that has a load of conditions to it. Whether they can meet that or not is a big question.”

Women’s leagues across Europe have taken a range of responses to the coronavirus crisis. The Women’s Bundesliga has set a provisional return date of May 29, whilst Spain’s Liga Iberdrola - the top tier of women’s football in the country - crowned Barcelona champions on Friday after the federation’s executive committee agreed to end all non-professional competitions due to the pandemic. There is to be relegation from the women’s top flight, but still promotion via play-off matches that will be played without spectators.

“Not knowing is the frustrating part,” said one WSL player. “We can’t change the decision that’s going to be made, but we haven’t known for seven weeks how this is going to continue. I don’t think clubs know - that’s why everyone is a little bit on edge.

“They had a meeting [on Tuesday] but nothing’s been decided. They haven’t confirmed a new date when they want to decide stuff. It could be next week. It could be in two weeks’ time. We’re not even sure what it depends on. There are so many things they have to consider.”

[thesurfsoup]

Vans US Open of Surfing Presented by Swatch Is ON Men's Round 4 Heat 1 Is In The Water Men's Round 5 Set To Follow To Compete Action-Packed Day Watch Live at WorldSurfLeague.com HUNTINGTON BEACH, California/USA (Friday, August 2, 2019) - The Vans US Open of Surfing presented by Swatch, a World Surf League (WSL) Men’s Qualifying Series (QS) 10,000 event, and one of the largest action sports festivals in the world, is ON for a 7:30am PDT start. Clean, two-to-three foot (1 - 1.2 metre) conditions will provide good opportunities for men’s Round 4 and 5 to determine Quarterfinal draws. Photo📸: Last year's runner-up, and 2015 Vans US Open Pro Junior winner, Griffin Colapinto (USA) looks to put his name on both the QS and Pro Junior trophies as he returns in Round 4 Heat 7. Photo Credit📸: © WSL / Morris Source: @WSL worldsurfleague.com Thank you World Surf League, in Gratitude ❤️ Surf Soup TV 🐢 🐢 🐢 Thank you Ocean ❤️ Tags for Surf Soup and Ocean Love ❤️💨 #surf #Surfer #surfsouptv #surfing #love #Grateful #protectwhatyoulove #surfsoup #🏄🏻 #sustainable #wsl #stopthrashingwaves #gratitude #stoked #surfgoals #vansusopen #vans #usopenofsurfing #hb #beach #huntingtonbeach #surfcity #huntingtonbeachpier #GriffinColapinto #itson https://www.instagram.com/p/B0q2aTxg_0T/?igshid=ryom73bky9da

[wosoindepth]

Jessica Fishlock: ‘Louis van Gaal was awe-inspiring but also a little crazy’ | 04.04.2017

“I’m incredibly proud but it’s not something I think about too often,” Jessica Fishlock says as she looks ahead to becoming the first Wales international to win 100 caps, a milestone the midfielder will achieve when the women’s side face Northern Ireland in a friendly in Ystrad Mynach on Wednesday evening. She is refusing to get carried away but then comes a refreshing moment of honesty. Asked how the Football Association of Wales is planning to mark the occasion, Fishlock replies: “I have no idea what the FAW will do but I hope they do something.”

And so they should. Reaching a century of international appearances is a standout achievement for any player and in Fishlock’s case is testament to her longevity, talent and desire to test herself constantly at home and abroad. She undeniably deserves recognition, having already represented her country more than any other person, male or female. More caps than Neville Southall (92), Gary Speed (85) and Craig Bellamy (78) and 33 more than the current darling of Welsh football, Gareth Bale (66).

“When I play for Wales I concentrate purely on doing the best I can for the team and that’ll be the same on Wednesday. It’ll just be another game,” says the 30-year-old. “But yes, I do recognise reaching 100 caps is an unbelievable achievement, as is being Wales most capped player. To be ahead of some of the greats we’ve had is humbling.”

The friendly on Wednesday, the first of two Wales are playing against Northern Ireland in preparation for the upcoming World Cup qualifying campaign (the second is on Friday, also at the Centre for Sporting Excellence in Ystrad Mynach), will be a particularly special occasion for Fishlock given she thought her international career had come to an end two years ago when she was dropped by the Wales manager, Jayne Ludlow. Fishlock was the team’s captain and most influential player but suddenly, with 82 caps to her name, found herself in the wilderness.

“That was the low point of my career,” says Fishlock. “At the time I didn’t understand why it had happened and I definitely wasn’t ready to be dropped. It broke me completely.

“At the end of day Jayne has done a phenomenal job for Wales and, when she came in, she felt she needed to make changes to the group. Her way of doing that was dropping me. That was her right and I grew to respect that decision.”

Getting a recall soon after was a “special moment” for Fishlock and she has not looked back since, with a history-making moment now on the horizon. It is one that will also represent the high-point of a 15-year career that began at Cardiff City Ladies and via spells in Bristol, Scotland, the Netherlands, Germany, Australia and the United States has made Fishlock one of the most travelled and successful players in women’s football history.

Among her achievements are back‑to‑back National Women’s Soccer League shields with her current club, Seattle Reign, in 2014 and 2015, a Champions League medal while on loan at FFC Frankfurt from Seattle in 2015, two Eredivisie titles with her first overseas club, AZ Alkmaar, in 2009 and 2010, and, most recently, back-to-back W-League titles with Melbourne City. The second of those was secured in February and made Fishlock, having again travelled to Australia during the NWSL off-season, the first player-coach to win the W-League in the competition’s nine-year history.

“I’ve travelled a lot and that was initially the case because when I started playing there was nothing for women’s football back home. I joined Cardiff, my local team, at the age of seven and made my debut at 15, during the days before professionalism and the WSL [Women’s Super League]. As a female player you still had to pay to play for a club and overall the standard was not great, something I found even after I moved to Bristol Academy [in 2011]. It got to the stage where I knew that, if I was going to achieve what I wanted to achieve from football, I had to go abroad.”

Fishlock got her chance to do so somewhat by chance. Having impressed for Wales in a match against Holland, she received an email from one of the Dutch assistant coaches, Ed Engelkes, asking if she would like to play in the new, fully professional Eredivisie Women league for Alkmaar, who Engelkes managed.

“I didn’t think twice about it. I immediately gave up my job [working for 02], packed my bags and headed to Holland,” says Fishlock. “It was the best decision I’ve ever made. Going to Alkmaar undoubtedly improved me as a player. When I arrived there, I was all hustle and bustle, someone who always wanted to get forward from midfield with no real thought process behind what I was doing. But that is not how they played in Holland; it was, and is, far more possession-based. So I had to strip back my game and start again and over time I grew to love the ball and being someone who dictates the tempo of a match.”

Fishlock’s passing accuracy and range significantly improved during her two years in Holland, something aided by a figure who in recent years became well known to her fellow Manchester United supporters. “Louis van Gaal took a couple of our training sessions,” she says. “He was head coach of the men’s team at the time and was very pro the women’s game.

“Both sessions he put on started with a basic passing routine but they lasted for ages because he was obsessed with them being perfect. He’d shout: ‘Stop, back to the beginning,’ if someone did something that was not 100% right. I’ve never seen attention to detail like it. It was awe-inspiring but also a little crazy, which tallies with the stories you hear about how he drilled the players at United.

“I spoke to him a few times and he was really nice. His knowledge of football is insanely good.”

Fishlock’s love of the game developed from being part of a “football-mad family” and playing in the park directly outside their home in Cardiff with her two older brothers, Gareth and James. “They were half-decent and playing with boys made me tougher,” Fishlock remembers before going on to reflect on the changes she has seen in women’s football since making her debut for Cardiff as a teenager and going on to become the club’s record goalscorer.

“The biggest change has probably been investment. It’s not been everywhere but in most countries where women’s football is played there are at least one or two teams who have benefited from major funding. That’s good but the downside is that it creates a big gap between rich and poor. I’d love to see investment spread through every league in every country so they’re all as competitive as they can be.

“Another pleasing development has been the medical side. As recently as a few years ago, if a girl got injured, she would be treated on the NHS. Now most clubs have full-time medical staff who can treat their players quickly and to a high level, which is crucial.”

Another crucial development has been visibility. By Fishlock’s own admission, there were no role models for her to aspire to when she was young. Now, however, and thanks to the steady rise in the profile and prominence of the women’s game, there are such figures, with Fishlock among the leading lights.

“I’ve had girls come up to me and say I’m their inspiration,” she says. “To have a positive impact on the next generation of female footballers is amazing.”

And Fishlock will get to inspire further on Wednesday having returned to Wales from Seattle, where she has lived since 2013 and describes as home. But the girl from Cardiff who grew up with posters of Eric Cantona and Paul Scholes on her wall remains very much Welsh. Dedicated to playing for her country ever since making her debut in 2006 and via ups and downs – the later including not so far being able to help Wales qualify for a major tournament – reaching a landmark which will take some beating.

“My family will be at the game on Wednesday, which is important as they are my support system – without them I wouldn’t have achieved anything. Once the whistle goes, I’ll want to do them and my country proud.”

[mastcomm]

Chelsea declared English ladies’s champions, Liverpool relegated

Chelsea topped Champions of 2019/2020 Ladies’s Tremendous League.

Chelsea had been awarded the Ladies’s Tremendous League title on Friday because the Soccer Affiliation utilized a points-per-game components to determine standings from the curtailed season.

The Blues had been some extent behind Manchester Metropolis on the high of the desk when the marketing campaign was stopped because of the coronavirus pandemic in March however had performed one sport fewer.

On the different finish of the desk, Liverpool are relegated to the Championship, with Aston Villa promoted to the 12-team top-flight.

Chelsea and Metropolis will symbolize England within the 2020/21 ladies’s Champions League.

“Soccer pales into insignificance at a time like this, nevertheless it additionally has the capability to carry pleasure and happiness to followers and communities in every single place,” stated Chelsea supervisor Emma Hayes.

“For my gamers and employees, profitable the league is one thing to be pleased with and I’ll inform them that after I converse to them.

“A variety of blood, sweat, and tears from each participant, at each membership, has gone into this season and it’s important we acknowledge that and rejoice the actual fact we’ve ended a extremely aggressive season as champions.”

The associated fee concerned in offering testing kits to finish the season was a serious hurdle for even the highest stage of the ladies’s sport to beat.

Liverpool expressed their disappointment that the WSL wouldn’t observe the instance of the highest two leagues within the males’s sport in England by returning to finish the marketing campaign.

“Liverpool FC is upset by at the moment’s determination on how the 2019/20 Ladies’s Tremendous League season has been concluded, which is able to see the Reds relegated to the Championship,” the membership stated in a press release.

“The main focus of our ladies’s workforce and employees for the reason that starting of the disaster was to be able to return to WSL play when it was secure and correct to take action.

“We imagine we’d have been in a position to meet all operational necessities however a return to play was deemed impractical.”

Nonetheless, Metropolis accepted the choice that sees them miss out on the title by the best of margins. (AFP/NAN)

Associated

from WordPress https://mastcomm.com.ng/sports/chelsea-declared-english-ladiess-champions-liverpool-relegated/

[vsplusonline]

Premier League | Matches suspended till April 4 due to coronavirus

New Post has been published on https://apzweb.com/premier-league-matches-suspended-till-april-4-due-to-coronavirus/

Premier League | Matches suspended till April 4 due to coronavirus

All elite soccer matches in England, including the Premier League, were suspended until April 4 on Friday due to the coronavirus pandemic, English soccer’s governing bodies said.

“Following a meeting of shareholders today, it was unanimously decided to suspend the Premier League with the intention of returning on April 4,” the Premier League said in a joint statement.

The English Football League (EFL), which oversees all professional tiers of English soccer below the top-flight, had announced the suspension of all football activity earlier in the day.

The Football Association said the professional game in England would be postponed until April 3 at the earliest.

England’s upcoming friendly internationals against Italy and Denmark at Wembley on March 27 and 31, respectively, will not take place, the FA said in a statement.

The men’s and women’s FA Cup competitions have also been suspended.

The decision to suspend all football activity in the country had been jointly taken by the Premier League, the FA, the EFL and the Women’s Super League (WSL), it added.

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