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    Kai Havertz shares hospital bed snap wearing knee brace as he releases statement on ‘physical and mentally tough’ injury

    KAI HAVERTZ has shared an update from his hospital bed after suffering a season-ending injury.The Arsenal forward tore his hamstring during the club’s training camp in Dubai last week.Kai Havertz released an update on his injury after an operationCredit: X/Kaihavertz29The 25-year-old has now released an update from the hospital following a successful operation.Taking to social media, he said: “The last few days have been tough to process both physically and mentally. “But yesterday was a good day. A successful op and a win.”Thanks for all the messages of support over the last few days, it’s really helped. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I’m now focused on my journey to full fitness and giving all the support I can give to the team in the background.”The Germany international’s absence had left Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta with just three healthy attackers at his disposal – Raheem Sterling, Leandro Trossard and 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri.Arsenal appeared predictably toothless against Leicester for much of the game on Saturday, until £33million summer signing Mikel Merino was introduced to play as an auxiliary striker.It had been reported in the week that Arteta and his coaches had identified the Spaniard as having the qualities to play up front despite being a midfielder by trade.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSAnd it proved to be a stroke of genius as Merino headed home a cross from Nwaneri to open the scoring, before tapping home at the far post to seal a 2-0 win.Arteta and the Gunners faithful will be hoping Merino and Co will continue to cope without their first-choice frontline.Arsenal player ratings vs Leicester: Ethan Nwaneri excels amid injury crisis but dreadful Raheem Sterling shadow of old selfThere had been hope Bukayo Saka would return next month, but SunSport exclusively revealed how the England international was now set for a further eight weeks on the sideline – pushing his expected return date to mid-April.Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus are also both out injured, leading to Arsenal searching the winter transfer market for more firepower.But the failure to add a new asset was a fact bemoaned by Arteta even before Havertz was struck down by his season-ending injury.After moving to within four points of league leaders Liverpool, the North Londoners host West Ham in a week’s time. More

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    ‘Small feast’ – Erling Haaland shares snap of crazy post-match meal amid fears Man City ace could miss Real Madrid clash

    ERLING HAALAND tucked into a “small feast” after Manchester City’s victory over Newcastle.The striker shared a snap of himself holding a bone and half-eaten lump of meat.Erling Haaland helped himself to some meat after beating NewcastleCredit: InstagramThe forward appeared to pick up an injury in the matchCredit: GettyPep Guardiola gave an update on Haaland’s fitnessCredit: ReutersHaaland, 24, was subbed off in the later stages of the 4-0 win after appearing to pick up a knee injury.The Cityzens were well ahead when the talisman went off after Omar Marmoush netted a hat-trick and James McAtee made it four.Haaland’s injury would have been cause for concern with Manchester City’s vital Champions League clash against Real Madrid next week.The reigning Premier League champions were beaten by the LaLiga giants in the first leg of their play-off match 3-2 at the Etihad.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThey will now travel to Spain for the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday.Pep Guardiola did give an update on the prolific forward’s condition after initially being “scared” for him..He said: “When he was down, everyone was scared but he got up and walked smiling like always.”I didn’t speak to him or the doctors but the doctors didn’t come with bad news so hopefully he is fine.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe picture of Haaland has filled Man City fans with confidence that he will be ready to go in Spain.One posted: “He’s always ready.”Pep Guardiola says Akanji’s season all-but over as Man City star suffers injury while playing ‘in emergency’ A second commented: “Having Haaland fit for the Real Madrid clash strengthens City’s line-up.”A third wrote: “Haaland is the cornerstone of Man City.”A fourth said: “This is great news.”Another added: “A massive relief.”Haaland was also entrusted with the armband against the Magpies.Guardiola has insisted that the striker will be a part of the leadership group for the foreseeable future.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “I voted for Erling Haaland to be part of the captains group.”He will be here for ten years and he will be part of the captains, it’s part of the process.” More

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    ‘Stormy days’ – Man Utd star Lisandro Martinez shares emotional update from hospital bed after op on horror knee injury

    LISANDRO Martinez has revealed he is on the road to recovery thanks to the love of his stunning girlfriend and their unborn daughter in a moving post-op update from his hospital bed.The Manchester United star opened up on the emotional rollercoaster he experienced following the season-ending knee injury against Crystal Palace earlier this month after undergoing surgery.Lisandro Martinez posted an update from the hospital following knee surgeryCredit: instagram @lisandromartinezzzMartinez showed he had the support of long-term partner MuriCredit: instagram @lisandromartinezzzHe admitted to initial feelings of “sadness and helplessness” after tearing his cruciate ligaments and said he would put his heart and soul into his rehabilitation process after the “perfect” operation.In his first update after surgery, he gave the thumbs-up as he admitted: “Today, after going through several stormy days where I allowed myself to feel and accept my sadness, helplessness, insecurities, fears, and a deep emotional imbalance, I am reconnecting with my essence and my values, which help me see things from a kinder and more positive perspective.”Thanking his club and the Argentine national team, he added: “I feel immense gratitude for the incredible work and support of @manchesterunited , @afaseleccion , my family, friends, team-mates, and everyone who took the time to send me a message of encouragement.“The surgery went perfectly!! Now it’s time to give it my all, with heart and soul, in the rehabilitation process.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFans responded by offering him more support.One wrote: “We’ll see you back soon.”Another added: “You’ve got this warrior.”The 27-year-old showed he had the support of childhood sweetheart Muri Lopez Benitez and their much-anticipated first child.Most read in FootballThe couple went public with 26-year-old Muri’s pregnancy last October.JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSMartinez and Muri posted a photo of them holding their baby scan, with the defender writing in a message alongside their snap: “We are so happy that you came into our lives. Thank you for choosing us.”They later revealed they were expecting a daughter they have decided to name Aurora.‘He’s perfect for Man Utd’ – Neville begs Amorim to re-sign flop strikerOvernight the footballer posted an adorable photo on his Instagram showing his girlfriend lying on his chest with her eyes closed as he embraced her in his hospital bed with his surgical gown still on.The brunette had written on the snap which she also posted online: “Getting better with lots of love” followed by a heart emoji.Martinez responded by referencing their unborn daughter and adding: “I love you both lots.”They met in their early teens in their home city of Gualeguay, and Muri has been at his side during his meteoric rise from Newell’s Old Boys to Ajax and his subsequent July 2022 move to Manchester.Muri was in Qatar to watch Martinez and his team-mates secure World Cup glory against France in December 2022.She’s known for her love of carnivals and often shows her glam side on social media.She showed off her baby belly a fortnight ago in a selfie photo with Martinez who had their French bulldog called Polo sat on his lap.Since his £56.7million move from Ajax the defender has had two operations on his foot and damaged the medical ligament in his right knee, although that injury didn’t require surgery.Man Utd are hoping Martinez will be back to fitness for the start of next season.This week the club have been plunged into crisis after FOUR stars were injured in training ahead of their clash at Tottenham to take them to 11 first-team stars in the treatment room.Kobbie Mainoo, Manuel Ugarte and Toby Collyer represent a triple blow to the Red Devils’ centre midfield options, while Amad Diallo was also announced to have suffered a potentially season-ending injury.Amad posted a heartfelt message on social media following the news of his injury.The Ivorian said: “Extremely disappointed to be writing this message in such a crucial time of the season.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Unfortunately, I will be out for some time with an injury. I will come back stronger than ever!! Time to support the boys from the outside. Still loads to play for.”This crisis has prompted manager Ruben Amorim to turn to the club’s Carrington Academy to bolster the ranks, with five youngsters – Sekou Kone, Harry Amass, Jack Moorhouse, Elyh Harrison and Chido Obi – being called up to travel to London with the senior squad. More

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    Man Utd name seven academy teenagers on bench for Spurs clash as injury crisis forces Ruben Amorim into shock line-up

    MANCHESTER UNITED have been forced to name seven academy teenagers on their bench for their clash with Tottenham today amid their horror injury crisis.The Red Devils currently have 11 first team stars out injured and Ruben Amorim has been forced into some uncomfortable decisions ahead of a huge visit to face Spurs.Ruben Amorim has taken seven teenagers to London as part of his travelling squad for Man Utd’s clash with SpursCredit: RexInjury to Amad Diallo has taken United’s injury crisis to another level, with 11 first team players now outCredit: GettyAmad Diallo became the latest big name to find himself sidelined after suffering an ankle ligament injury – with fears the winger could miss the remainder of the season.Kobbie Mainoo is also out of action with a muscle strain, while fellow holders Manuel Ugarte and Toby Collyer are both major doubts.Elsewhere Mason Mount, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof all remain out of action.As a result, Amorim will now have to turn to youth with the struggling boss taking seven teenagers in his travelling squad to North London.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSekou Kone, Harry Amass, Jack Moorhouse, Elyh Harrison, Jack Fletcher, 17 , who is the son of United legend Darren, defender Tyler Fredricson, 19, and Chido Obi have all travelled with the first team for the Premier League fixture.None of those youth stars have made their professional debut for United yet and would be thrown in at the deep end if they were given the nod by Amorim this afternoon.United fans have been calling for Chido Obi, 17, to get a chance in the first team given his stunning goalscoring form in the youth leagues.The Danish teenager, who signed for United from Arsenal this summer, has scored 37 goals in 24 U18 Premier League appearances over the last two seasons.Most read in FootballUnited fans have been calling for youth goalscoring machine Chido Obi to get a chanceCredit: GettyHarry Amass impressed during United’s pre-season tourCredit: GettyMan Utd injuries for Spurs clash11 stars set to miss out:Lisandro MartinezKobbie MainooAmad DialloManuel UgarteToby CollyerAltay BayindirJonny EvansVictor LindelofTom HeatonMason MountBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSWhile left-back Harry Amass, 17, caught the eye of United fans for his performances in the club’s pre-season fixtures this summer.Amass, who represents England at U18 level, was thought to be highly rated by previous boss Erik ten Hag, who regularly asked him to train with the first team.‘He’s perfect for Man Utd’ – Neville begs Amorim to re-sign flop strikerMidfielder Jack Moorhouse, 19, is another highly rated star and even had Amorim personally watch his performance during a 5-1 win over Southampton in December alongside Darren Fletcher and Jason Wilcox.Fellow midfield talent Sekou Kone has a different story to the rest with United splashing £1million on the 19-year-old this summer in a deal with Guidars FC in his homeland of Mali.And goalkeeper Elyh Harrison, who spent the first half of the season on loan at Chester, will provide back-up should there be any more injuries to shot-stoppers, given the absences of Tom Heaton and Altay Bayindir already.It’s unlikely that any of the teenagers will start, but fans could see a few of them thrown on to the bench and potentially getting some minutes depending on the state of play.Amorim’s opposite number, Ange Postecoglou, has given more minutes to teenagers than any other Premier League boss this term due to Spurs’ own injury crisis.Kids Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall have emerged as regular first team starters as a result.For Amorim, it’s more likely that the youngsters will start on the bench with the Old Trafford head honcho expected to play Andre Onana in goal with a back five of Patrick Dorgu, Diogo Dalot, Leny Yoro, Mathijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui in front of him.That defensive line would be complimented by a midfield pairing of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen.While Joshua Zirkzee, Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes would make up the attack for Amorim.Should he want to squeeze one of the kids in, then fans would be most excited to see youth bagsman Obi given his opportunity to shine in the Premier League.READ MORE SUN STORIESThat decision would probably see Fernandes drop into a deeper role and Obi play as part of the front three instead.While both Rasmus Hojlund and Harry Maguire could be chosen to return to the line-up.Gaolkeeper Elyh Harrison will provide cover for Andre OnanaCredit: PAJack Moorhouse has been personally watched by Ruben Amorim at youth levelCredit: RexUnited spent £1m on Sekou Kone in the summerCredit: Alamy More

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    ‘Top pro’ – Watch Blackburn ace appear to troll Plymouth bench after scoring vs old side before bizarre excuse for cele

    ADAM FORSHAW appeared to brutally troll Plymouth Argyle after coming back to haunt his former club.The Blackburn Rovers midfielder netted the opening goal against the Pilgrims at Ewood Park on Saturday – having only left them last month.Adam Forshaw celebrated in front of the Plymouth bench after scoringCredit: RexHe was joined by his team-matesCredit: GettyThe midfielder ran off in celebration and stood in front of the away side’s bench with his arms pointing to the sky.Plymouth manager Miron Muslic appeared unimpressed with Forshaw’s antics as he stood with his hands in his pockets.Tyrhys Dolan netted Rovers’ second goal of the game in the 78th minute to wrap up the win.Forshaw was on Plymouth’s books as recently as January 11 when his contract was terminated.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLFans loved the moment as they reacted on social media.One posted: “First goal after nine years, and this is how he celebrates.”A second commented: “Hahaha top pro.”A third wrote: “Like that was never written in the stars.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSA fourth said: “Absolutely nailed on.”Another added: “Should’ve put money on that.”Former Championship star now a train driver in ‘new career to last the rest of my life’ He was released by Plymouth in JanuaryCredit: GettyForshaw took to social media after the game to explain his celebration.His bizarre excuse claimed that he was running towards his family.He wrote: “No bad intentions with the celebration and sorry for how it came across.”The family were sat behind the benches.”Muslic also spoke about Forshaw’s celebration after the game.He said: “I have nothing but respect for Forshaw because he explained that behind us was his family, his sons.”I respect that and if I had scored that beautiful goal, I would go to my family celebrating.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He is a top professional and there is nothing but respect.”He told me this and for me, the story was done in a millisecond. We hugged each other and moved on.” More

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    ‘Weirdest games ever’ – Troy Deeney in shock after Bournemouth ace Justin Kuivert’s half-time gesture to Southampton fan

    TROY DEENEY labelled Southampton’s defeat to Bournemouth as one of the “weirdest games ever”.The former Premier League star was covering the match and left baffled after seeing Justin Kluivert’s gesture to a Saints fan at half-time.Troy Deeney was left baffled during Southampton vs BournemouthCredit: RexJustin Kluivert apparently gave his shirt to a Southampton fan at half-timeCredit: RexA fan was spotted appearing to show off the shirtCredit: XAndoni Iraola’s side romped into a 2-0 lead with two goals in two first-half minutes from Dango Ouattara and Ryan Christie.The second goal was set up by Kluivert as he assisted Christie before the shot.But it was the Dutchman’s actions after the half-time whistle that caught Deeney’s attention.The Cherries star could be seen giving his shirt to a supporter in the home end as he walked down the tunnel at the break.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt left Deeney baffled as he reported on the match.He said on talkSPORT: “Bournemouth haven’t even got to a point yet where it feels like they’re about to take the handbrake off.”Any little ball around the corner and a one-two, they’re in. And Southampton cannot keep up making these last-ditch tackles.”I’ve counted five so far on my notes where it’s a last-ditch tackle. If they get that wrong either, they’re going through on goal 1v1 Bournemouth.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”Otherwise, a player’s being sent off. And it just cannot happen the way that it is.”So to sum it up and put it all into a nice ribbon, we’ve just seen Kluivert, a Bournemouth player, go and give his shirt to a Southampton fan at half-time. And everyone was cheering.Cult hero Ian Holloway spent four years out of football enjoying his hobby as a painter “It’s one of the weirdest games of football I’ve ever been at in my life.”I think that’s what you would call a heads-gone.”Fans have reacted to the moment on social media with some home supporters claiming that the fan was a Cherry who had snuck into the Saints’ end.One posted: “Must be a Bournemouth supporter.”A second wrote: “Whoever asked for the Kluivert shirt at half time…. Absolute disgrace.”A third commented: “Grown man begging for an opposition shirt at halftime, in Saints end ughhhh.”READ MORE SUN STORIESSouthampton did get back into the game in the second half as Kamaldeen Sulemana netted his first Premier League goal of the season.However, hopes of a comeback were halted when Marcus Tavernier netted Bournemouth’s third of the match. More

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    Champions League winning Porto legend Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa dies aged 87 as Jose Mourinho leads tributes

    PORTO legend Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa has passed away aged 87.The former club president led the club to 69 titles during his tenure, including the Champions League in 2004.Porto’s former president Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa has passed awayCredit: AFPPorto won 69 titles under Da CostaCredit: AFPJose Mourinho has led tributes on social mediaCredit: GettyDa Costa left his role at Porto in May 2024 and was succeeded by former Chelsea manager Andre Villas Boas.But it was another former Blues boss who led tributes on social media.Jose Mourinho took to Instagram to post a touching statement about his old employer.He wrote: “‘Mourinho, you were the coach who brought me the greatest joys’.READ MORE ON SPORT”Those were your words, Mr. President.”My words are: ‘I feel a tremendous honor to be part of your history and I will always be grateful for your trust and the influence you had on my career.'”This is how we said our goodbyes last summer in your beloved city.”The smile from the first day and the joy of the last time we were together.”Most read in FootballFormer Porto manager Sergio Conceicao took the news very hard after AC Milan’s win over Hellas Verona.He was due to face the media after the victory at the San Siro but was to “shaken” to do so.Watch Jose Mourinho slap Fenerbahce translator after comical ‘toilet’ mistake during press conference Sergio Conceicao was too sad to speak to the mediaCredit: GettyHe worked with Da Costa during his time as Porto managerCredit: GettyThis was confirmed by club adviser Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who spoke to the press instead.He said: “I am here because the coach is in the locker room.”He is very shaken at the death of the Porto president, who was like a father to him. So I am here.”Porto fans also paid tribute to the club legend by gathering outside the Estadio do Dragao Stadium.They could be heard chanting songs after the news of the former president’s death.A huge tifo with Da Costa’s picture was hung from a nearby bridge and surrounded by flairs.Former Newcastle defender Chancel Mbemba also shared a tribute for Da Costa on his X account.He joined the Portuguese giants back in 2018 after three years on Tyneside.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe wrote: “Rest in peace President Pinto Da Costa, I am grateful for the chance you gave me to join the great club of FC Porto.”My sincere condolences to the relatives and to the whole great family of the Portistas.”Porto statement on Jorge Nuno Pinto da CostaPorto released a statement after the death of former club president Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa…It read: “The departure of the President of Presidents leaves Futebol Clube do Porto orphaned of its greatest figure, the main organiser of great victories and the person most responsible for building an unmistakable identity and legacy.”Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa will live on forever in the memory and hearts of all Porto fans.”Between 23 April 1982 and 7 May 2024, the biggest club in the North became the best club in Portugal and grew from local and regional to European and world level.”Without ever forgetting its roots, FC Porto grew with the city and the city grew with FC Porto.”The club has more than 131 years of history, but there is a before and after Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa.”Since then everything has changed.”Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa transformed FC Porto the Portuguese club with the most official titles by lifting 23 championships, 22 Super Cups, 15 Portuguese Cups, two Intercontinental Cups, a European Champion Clubs’ Cup, Champions League, a UEFA Cup and a Europa League, a European Super Cup and a League Cup.” More

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    ‘There is no easy game as every team is getting closer to each other’, says Tottenham’s Luana Buhler 

    LUANA BUHLER has no qualms about overcoming big obstacles in football – having battled back from two serious knee injuries in her teens. Today the versatile Switzerland defender, 28, wants Tottenham to pull off the big challenge of dispatching Arsenal in their WSL derby duel.Luana Buhler hopes Tottenham can defeat Arsenal for the first time at the Emirates in a WSL derbyBuhler and her team-mates hope to return to winning ways following a narrow 1-0 loss to Man United last time outCredit: GettyIt was at the age of 15 playing with Swiss boys team FC Schotz, and then at 19 in for women’s side FC Zurich, that Buhler suffered anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures. For Buhler, who began her senior playing career at FC Zürich in 2016, having the support of family and friends and the determination to come back stronger to fulfil her football dream was key. The 54-capped Switzerland, who spent five years at German side Hoffenheim before her 2023 Tottenham move said: “The first injury was (sustained whilst playing) with a boys’ team. “It was at an age where you grow a lot as a girl but maybe don’t have the support yet that was needed back then. Read More Football Stories “At that time, the support with athletic coaches, even strength training, wasn’t even a topic yet, so I think that was something that was also caused a little bit by the circumstances. “With my second one (ACL injury) I was quite lucky with the medical staff and everything around being developed much better. “I was in a women’s environment already (at FC Zurich) and there I had more professional help during my rehab“That also helped me to come back in a better state and quite strong. Most read in Football“When you have an injury that big, all you just want to do is come back and play again. “I was quite young when those injuries came. “It was probably one of the toughest times during my career. It challenged me emotionally and physically.“But these were also the times where I would learn the most about being patient and showing resilience.”Resilience is something that Buhler and her Tottenham team-mates have had to rely on at times this season since losing their last derby clash with Arsenal. Following that 3-0 home loss last November her side, who are sixth in the WSL, have won five and drawn one of their last nine games across all competitions. Buhler sees this term as one of ups and downs for Robert Vilhamn’s aces who are yet to beat the Gunners away in the top tier. But the defender is confident Tottenham can give Arsenal a run for their money at the Emirates this afternoon, having beaten them for the first time in a top-flight duel in December 2023. She adds: “We could see when we won our first (WSL) game against Arsenal, that the gap is, in my opinion, closing (in these games). “There’s no easy game anymore because every team is getting closer to each other. “We want to challenge them as much as we can.”Today’s 12:30pm clash could see Buhler, who was born in Lucerne, central Switzerland, battle her national team-mate Lia Walti. Like Buhler, the tenacious midfielder played in Germany’s top-flight for Turbine Potsdam before making a move to the WSL and joining Arsenal in 2018. Since then Walti has won three trophies with the Gunners, who are third in the league including a WSL title back in 2019. Buhler said: “Lia is a really great player and also a leader for us in the national team. “As a team we are really lucky to have her. On the other hand she’s a tough player to play against. “There are so many good individual players at Arsenal who will challenge us as a team. “I’m really looking forward to it because it’s the greatest thing to go against the best players in Europe.”Prior to joining Tottenham Buhler, who is studying for a masters degree in business, has experienced playing in the Champions League with her former clubs FC Zurich and Hoffenheim. And long with Walti the Tottenham ace is looking forward to making history with her national team, when Switzerland hosts the Women’s Euros for the first time this year. Her side, currently ranked as the 23rd best side in the world, will take on Norway in their group stage opener on July 2 in Basel. And Buhler hopes the tournament will lead to greater support for girls’ grassroots teams in her country and improving the infrastructure of the women’s game there. The Switzerland international said: “We’re still a little bit behind in the whole development of infrastructure and grassroots teams. “I hope this can give a real boost to women’s football and sports in general for girls and women in Switzerland. “There are not enough opportunities for girls in comparison to the boys. “There is, on basic levels, infrastructure missing and even teams are missing. Tottenham hope to produce a repeat of the performance that led to their 1-0 defeat of Arsenal in the top tier in December 2023Credit: Sunday Times“I know from girls in my hometown that they still struggle to find a (football) team with whom they can participate.READ MORE SUN STORIES“That’s one of the first things we need to change, to have those infrastructures for all the boys and girls at the same level.“I would like to see more visibility of women’s football in general.” More