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      Wiegman eager to see England top group following Women’s Nations League clash with the Netherlands

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      SARINA WIEGMAN insists there will be no split loyalties when she oversees England in their upcoming clash with the Netherlands.And the head coach admits steering Lionesses against her Dutch compatriots for the first time on home soil will be a strange and nice experience
      Sarina Wiegman is fully focused on steering England to back-to-back wins in the Women’s Nations LeagueCredit: Getty
      The Lionesses’ second clash in the contest will see them take Wiegman’s compatriots in UtrechtCredit: Getty
      Wiegman, 53, has been looking ahead to a Tuesday night clash between her old side and the reigning Euros champs in the Women’s Nations League.
      A win in Utrecht for the World Cup finalists could deal a blow to her compatriots’ hopes of qualifying for the Olympics in Paris next summer. 
      Wiegman, whose England aces are second in Group A behind Belgium,  said: “If we were not playing the Netherlands then of course I (would) want them to do well. 
      “But we are playing against them and we want to win the game. I can turn that off, I have to, it’s my job. 

      “I want the Netherlands to have the best but we want to be first in the league.
      “It’s just very special to be here, to play the opponents and of course we know each other really well. 
      “I know most of the staff, the players and it’s in the Netherlands so lots of people will be in the stands.
      “It’s a little bit strange too. Of course I have some memories here. I’m really looking forward to it.”
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      England’s clash with the Dutch team Wiegman led to Euros glory in 2017 comes two days after their rivals’ 2-1 loss to Belgium in their Women’s Nations League opener
      And the head coach, who confirmed Alessia Russo is available for the game, is wary of taking her opponents for granted. 
      She added: “If you look at their stats against Belgium, they had pretty good stats and I saw how the game developed. 
      “They were a little bit unlucky and Belgium took their chances.
      “You say the last couple of games they lost – I think one of the last was (against) Spain who became world champions.
      “That’s a game that was very close, and they did well in that game too. 
      “Of course, they want to do well because their goal is also still to come first in the group.” 
      England’s clash with their Dutch opponents will8 see Wiegman pits her wits against Netherlands boss Andries Jonker, who managed her during her playing days at Ter Leede. 
      It also comes a day after Wiegman hailed midfielder superstar Megan Rapinoe who played her very last game for the USA on Sunday – a 2-0 win against South Africa.
      The Netherlands are eager to return to winning ways after falling to a slim 2-1 defeat against Belgium last time outCredit: EPA
      Wiegman paid tribute to NWSL heroine Megan Rapinoe following her final game for the USACredit: Getty
      And she believes the Lionesses can take up the mantle of Rapinoe and her US team-mates in helping leading the fight for women’s rights in football. 
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      Wiegman added: “The US are the trailblazers in women’s football, but not only in women’s football but also the position of women in society.
      “Megan  had a big role in that. We see England players having a big role in that too.” More

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      Netherlands vs England: Lionesses eye back-to-back wins in Nations League group – FREE stream, TV, team news

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      ENGLAND will face the Netherlands in their second Women’s Nations League match in Group A1.The Lionesses beat rivals Scotland 2-1 last Friday thanks to goals from Lucy Bronze and Lauren Hemp.
      England beat Scotland in their Nations League group openerCredit: GETTY
      Meanwhile, Netherlands suffered defeat in their Nations League opener after Jassina Blom’s 93rd-minute strike secured all three points for Belgium against the Dutch.
      England have only lost two of their previous 14 matches in all competitions against the Netherlands, with the Lionesses winning 5-1 in their last meeting in 2022.
      Sarina Weigman’s side go into Tuesday night’s clash in outstanding form, losing just one of their last 31 competitive international fixtures under the Dutch manager.
      When is Netherlands vs England?

      Netherlands vs England will take place on Tuesday, September 26.
      Kick off be at 7pm BST.
      The Stadion Galgenwaard will host.

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      What TV channel is Netherlands vs England on and can it be live streamed FREE?

      Netherlands vs England will be broadcast LIVE on ITV4.
      You can live stream all the action for FREE via the ITVX website/app.
      Alternatively, you can follow SunSport’s live blog to keep up to date with all the action.

      Team news
      Alessia Russo may be involved on Tuesday night after missing the Scotland clash on Friday due to linking up with the team late last week.
      The forward’s return means Sarina Weigman will have an entire squad to pick from for the Netherlands clash.
      England squad: Earps, Hampton, Roebuck, Bronze, Bright, Greenwood, Carter, Charles, Le Tissier, Morgan, Wubben-Moy, Coombs, Nobbs, Park, Staniforth, Stanway, Toone, Zelem, Daly, Hemp, James, Kelly, Russo, Robinson.
      Most read in Football
      Netherlands squad: Van Domselaar, Kop, Weimar, Auee, Baijings, Beernensteyn, Brugts, Casparij, Dijkstra, Van de Donk, Damaris, Groenen, Jansen, Janssen, Kalma, Kaptein, Martens, Olislagers, Pelova, Roord, Snoeijs, Spitse, Wilms.
      What are the odds?
      Match result

      Netherlands – 33/20
      Draw – 11/5
      England – 27/20

      *Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes and are correct at the time of publication. More

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      Maddy Cusack death updates — Sheffield United star dies at 27 after signing new deal as cause not yet revealed

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      SHEFFIELD United women’s star Maddy Cusack has died aged 27, the club confirmed in a heartbreaking statement Thursday afternoon.Rising Sheffield United star Cusack tragically passed away last week, with tributes pouring in from across the football world.
      Maddy had just entered her sixth season with the club after signing a new deal in July.
      Clubs across the women’s game held a minute’s silence before matches this weekend, including Sheffield’s meeting with Newcastle United.
      In a club statement, The Blades said: “Ahead of the Newcastle game, we will celebrate & honour the life of Maddy Cusack, a loved & respected figure of the Sheffield United family. There will forever be a void in the hearts of everyone connected to the club & a number of activities have been planned to remember her. We would politely ask supporters to be in their seats for 4.15pm to partake.”
      The cause of death has not yet been revealed but police have confirmed they are not treating it as suspicious.
      Read our live blog for the latest news and updates…
      Maddy Cusack was more than just a Sheffield United player
      Maddy Cusack joined Sheffield United in 2019, taking on not only the role of one of the most prominent midfielders in the women’s squad, but also acting as a marketing executive for the club.
      Last season, she made her 100th appearance for the team, becoming the first player to do so.
      She was also a “valued colleague” at the offices in Bramall Lane.
      Maddy started off by working with the Sheffield United Community Foundation before moving to the Club in 2021 to help in marketing operations for the Blades.
      Credit: Getty
      Lionesses pay respects to Maddy Cusack
      A number of England’s Lionesses have taken to social media to pay their respects to Maddy following her tragic death.
      England and Aston Villa midfielder Jordan Nobbs wrote: “Sending all our love to Maddy’s family and friends.”
      Tottenham and England forward Beth England posted: “This is devastating news.
      “My thoughts and love go out to her family, friends and everyone at Sheffield United. Rest in peace, Maddy.”
      Manchester City and Lioness Lauren Hemp, who plays as a forward, said: “Awful awful news, my love and thoughts are with her family, friends and everyone at Sheffield.”
      Well-wishers take to social media to praise Sheffield United tributes
      Following the moving tributes paid by players and fans as Sheffield United faced Newcastle at Bramall Lane this afternoon, people have taken to X — formerly Twitter — to react.
      One wrote: “This is terribly sad a young bright star, too soon… Rest in peace, Maddy C. I do hope that stadium and or Sheffield will find ways to forever Maddy’s memory be kept alive.”
      Another penned: “A beautiful tribute. Rest in peace Maddy”
      While a third said: “U should rest that Number 8 in her Honour”
      School honours ‘inspirational’ Maddy Cusack
      In a heartbreaking tribute to the late Maddy Cusack, a primary school she visited has described the inspirational impact she had on its children.
      Ecclesall Primary School shared a photo of Cusack and said: “We are really saddened to hear that footballer Maddy Cusack died earlier this week aged just 27. 
      “Maddy was one of 3 players from Sheffield United who came to inspire girls to play football at a joint event with Sheffield Girls’ in March 2023 (in the falling snow)! Our thoughts are with her family, friends and the wider Sheffield United, Sheffield United Women community. A really inspirational woman!”
      What clubs did Maddy Cusack play for?
      Maddy Cusack ability allowed her to play for a number of teams in the country.
      The midfielder represented Birmingham and Aston Villa before signing a contract with Sheffield United in 2019.

      Who was Maddy Cusack?
      Cusack was a talented midfielder who hit the 100-appearance milestone for Sheffield United.
      And not only was she good on the pitch, Cusack also worked as a marketing executive for the football club.
      The Blades’ chief executive officer mentioned that the midfielder was very popular and that she will be “sadly missed.”
      In pictures: Maddy’s family pay tribute ahead of Sunday’s game
      Tony Currie, Sheffield United Women player Sophie Barker and Maddy Cusack‘s mum and sister took to the field to lay a wreath before the 4:30pm kick-off between The Blades and Newcastle on Sunday.
      The stadium honoured Maddy with a minute’s silence after the United star died aged 27.
      Credit: PA
      Real Madrid pays tribute
      Global football giants Real Madrid have paid tribute to Maddy Cusack following her tragic death at just 27.
      Taking to X, the Spanish side said: “Real Madrid, its president and its Board of Directors deeply regret the death of Maddy Cusack, a Sheffield United player, and would like to express their condolences and love to her family, her teammates, her club and her loved ones.
      “Rest in peace.”
      Maddy Cusack’s death ‘not suspicious’, say police
      Derbyshire Police have confirmed they are not treating Maddy Cusack’s death as suspicious following her passing aged 27.
      A statement read: “We were called to a property in Lady Lea Road, Horsley, just after 6.35pm on Wednesday 20 September.
      “A woman, in her 20s, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her family are aware and are being supported by specialist officers.”

      Leah Williamson honours Maddy
      Arsenal and England legend Leah Williamson has paid tribute to Maddy Cusack following her tragic death.
      She wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: “Sending all my love and condolences to Maddy’s family at this awful time!”
      Maddy made her Sheffield United debut in 2019 and went on to become the first-ever player to earn 100 caps for the club’s women’s team.
      Blades fans hail Newcastle supporters following heartfelt tribute
      Sheffield United fans have hailed Newcastle supporters after away attendees paid tribute to Maddy Cusack at yesterday’s match.
      One Blades fan took to X and said: “Must say I found it quite emotional that Newcastle United fans, without prompting, started off the prolonged applause for Maddy Cusack at the end of #SUFC’s eulogy to her. That was such a fantastic & appreciated gesture.”
      While another added: “It was outstanding and made it even more emotional! An honour to be there for the tribute to a truly wonderful person.”
      What was Maddy Cusack’s cause of death?
      No cause of death has been given for Maddy Cusack’s passing, aged just 27.
      Following her death, Stephen Bettis, Chief executive officer for United, said: “This is heartbreaking news for everyone at Bramall Lane.
      “Maddy had a unique position of being part of a number of teams at Sheffield United and was popular with everyone that she came into contact with.
      “Her personality and professionalism made her a credit to her family — she will be sadly missed.
      “Whilst taking in the news and moving forward, the club will offer as much support as possible to Maddy’s family, friends and colleagues.”
      Maddy’s teammates speak of ‘heartbreak’ following stars death
      Maddy Cusack‘s Sheffield United Women teammates have taken to social media to pay touching tributes.
      Defender Molly Graham posted: “Absolutely devastating news.
      “Such a great person and team-mate.
      “You will be missed hugely! Rest in peace Mads.”
      Fellow defender Charlotte Newsham also wrote: ‘Beyond broken and shocked to have lost a team-mate and good friend.
      “We will miss you so much Mads.’ 
      Sheffield United’s prime
      United’s heyday was undoubtedly the 30-year era from 1895 to 1925, when they were English champions in 1897-98, runners-up in 1896-97 and 1899-1900, and FA Cup winners in 1899, 1902, 1915, and 1925.
      United have not won a trophy since 1925, with the exception of those related to promotion from lower levels, with their greatest cup achievements being multiple semi-final appearances in the FA Cup and League Cup.
      School honours ‘inspirational’ Maddy Cusack
      In a heartbreaking tribute to the late Maddy Cusack, a primary school she visited has described the inspirational impact she had on its children.
      Ecclesall Primary School shared a photo of Cusack and said: “We are really saddened to hear that footballer Maddy Cusack died earlier this week aged just 27. 
      “Maddy was one of 3 players from Sheffield United who came to inspire girls to play football at a joint event with Sheffield Girls’ in March 2023 (in the falling snow)! Our thoughts are with her family, friends and the wider Sheffield United, Sheffield United Women community. A really inspirational woman!”
      Fans slam ‘disappointing’ Sky Sports
      Some football fans have taken to social media to criticise Sky Sports for its coverage of yesterday’s tributes to Maddy Cusack.
      One X user said: “Disappointing that Sky Sports have given literally 10 seconds to Sheffield United’s tributes to Maddy Cusack, and given a longer package to the Solheim Cup.”
      While another added: “Don’t think I’ve ever seen anything that sums up the modern state of sports media/broadcasting more than Sky Sports going for an ad-break…during the memorial ceremony for Maddy Cusack.”
      What happened in yesterday’s Sheffield United game?
      Newcastle have been searching for their A-game so far this season — and they certainly found it yesterday, as they smashed Sheffield United 8-0.
      Paul Heckingbottom‘s job was on the line already before Sunday afternoon’s thrashing, and it now looks certain that he will be the first manager sacked this season.

      Inside Maddy’s footballing career
      Midfielder Maddy Cusack joined the Blades back in 2019 and also worked for the club as a marketing executive.
      She signed a new deal back in July after making her 100th appearance last term.
      Prior to signing for Sheffield United, Cusack also had spells with both Birmingham and Aston Villa.
      Newcastle chief honours Maddy Cusack
      Newcastle co-owner Amanda Staveley laid a wreath in memorial outside Bramall Lane ahead of yesterday’s game.
      This came as part of a day of tributes to the late star, including a minute’s silence held before the match.
      The Sheffield United players also wore shirts with Cusack’s name and number on the back prior to kick-off.
      Who was Maddy Cusack?
      Cusack was a talented midfielder who hit the 100-appearance milestone for Sheffield United.
      Not only was she good on the pitch, Cusack also worked as a marketing executive for the football club.
      The Blades’ chief executive officer mentioned that the midfielder was very popular and that she would be “sadly missed.”

      In Pictures: Sheffield United players wear shirts in memory of Maddy and observe minute’s silence
      Sheffield United players wore shirts in honour of Maddy Cusack ahead of yesterday’s clash vs. Newcastle.
      The two sets of players players and fans in the stadium observed a minute’s silence before the 4:30pm kick-off got underway.
      Maddy on match-day programme cover
      Maddy Cusack is on the match-day programme cover as Sheffield United took on Newcastle in the 4:30pm kick-off at Bramall Lane yesterday.
      In pictures: Mangers pay respects to Maddy Cusack
      Paul Heckingbottom and Eddie Howe observing the minute’s silence for Maddy Cusack before  Sheffield United were thrashed 8-0 by Newcastle.

      ‘Disrespectful’ Sky Sports cut to ad break during coverage of Maddy Cusack tribute
      Incensed football fans have taken to X — formerly Twitter — to bemoan Sky Sport’s coverage of the tribute to Maddy Cusack before the Sheffield United v Newcastle game this afternoon.
      One said: “So Sheff United do a tribute for Maddy Cusack, and what do sky sports do? Interrupt it with a ad break. The disrespect from the [clown emoji] is unbelievable.”
      Another wrote: “SkySports cutting the tribute to Maddy Cusack in order to put an advert in for Ladbrokes. Absolutely disgusting”
      While a third penned: “don’t think i’ve ever seen anything that sums up the modern state of sports media/broadcasting more than sky sports going for an ad-break (ladbrokes, of course) during the memorial ceremony for maddy cusack”
      Sheffield United’s statement before Maddy Cusack’s match-day tributes
      Sheffield United released a statement confirming: “Ahead of the Newcastle game, we will celebrate & honour the life of Maddy Cusack, a loved & respected figure of the Sheffield United family.
      “There will forever be a void in the hearts of everyone connected to the club & a number of activities have been planned to remember her.
      “We would politely ask supporters to be in their seats for 4.15pm to partake.”
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      England 2 Scotland 1: Lionesses win hard-fought Auld Enemy clash to get Women’s Nations League campaign off to a flier

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      ENGLAND proved there was no World Cup hangover with a battling 2-1 defeat of Scotland in the Women’s Nations League. Ex-Sunderland ace Lucy Bronze had the Stadium of Light crowd rocking as the hosts fended off a feisty fightback to win their opening fixture.  
      England clinched three points on their first-ever Nations League appearanceCredit: EPA
      Rachel Daly thought she had opened the scoring, but the goal was disallowed after Kelly was deemed to be in an offside positionCredit: Reuters
      It is a victory that brings England a little closer to getting the results they need for a Team GB football side to qualify for the Paris Olympics. 
      In a match that came a month after the team endured World Cup final heartbreak, the Lionesses returned to winning ways under boss Sarina Wiegman. 
      And the match came a night after many across the women’s game and beyond mourned the death of Sheffield United ace Maddy Cusack. 
      The passing of the highly-rated midfielder on Wednesday, at the age of just 27, prompted heartfelt tributes from across the game including from Beth Mead and Leah Williamson.
      Read More on the Lionesses
      The Lionesses and Scotland wore black armbands and observed a minute’s silence in honour of highly-rated Blades centurion, who played for England at youth level. 
      And they also donned wristband bearing the slogan #SeAcabo in honour of Spain’s Women’s stars’ battle for change after being treated shabbily by their FA.
      Ahead of the game there were concerns that the Lionesses could feel the effects of fixture overload having played two major tournaments back-to-back.
      But any signs of tiredness were initially blown away early in the first-half.
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      Lucy Bronze broke the deadlockCredit: Getty
      Lauren Hemp doubled England’s advantageCredit: Getty
      Kirsty Hanson got one back for Scotland with the last kick of the first halfCredit: Getty
      And they proved the newly-agreed performance bonus with the FA was well-deserved.
      Rachel Daly’s thumping header almost gave the hosts an early opener before the goal was ruled offside. 
      Scotland had some rare chances of their own in the first spell with Caroline Weir testing Mary Earps at close range and Martha Thomas almost meeting Kirsty Hanson’s cross. 
      However the visitors went 1-0 down with Bronze heading home in the 39th minute before Lauren Hemp doubling the advantage moments later. 
      But much to England’s surprise Hanson pulled one slotting beyond Earps. 
      The second spell saw Wiegman’s side come under the cosh with Hanson proving to be a pest in attack before limping off with ankle issue late on. 
      She struck the bar with a volley struck over Earps moments after teeing up Claire Emslie with Alex Greenwood forced to clear the ball out of danger. 
      Weir fired an effort straight at Earps late on with the Lionesses’ Player of the Year stop prompting loud chants of her name by the crowd. 
      And her team held out to claim a narrow win ahead of their second Women’s Nations League Group A duel with Holland on Tuesday.  More

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      England vs Scotland: Lionesses set aside World Cup heartbreak with epic Nations League tie – stream FREE, TV, teams

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      ENGLAND will be determined to push their World Cup final heartbreak aside as they face Scotland in a thrilling Nations League opener TONIGHT!The Lionesses reached their second major final in as many years under head coach Sarina Wiegman.
      England lost the Women’s World Cup final against SpainCredit: Getty
      However, Olga Carmona’s first-half strike ruined the Lionesses’ summer as it was enough to see Spain clinch the World Cup in August.
      Wiegaman’s side must dust themselves down and now re-channel their minds on what they hope to be a successful Nations League journey.
      And England open up their campaign against British rivals Scotland – a fixture that they have dominated over the years.
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      When is England vs Scotland?

      England’s opening Nations League match against Scotland will take place TONIGHT – Friday, September 22.
      It is scheduled to get underway at 7:45pm BST.
      Stadium of Light – the home of Sunderland is the allocated arena for this huge match and it can host around 48, 707 fans.
      Goals from Nikita Parris and Ellen White sealed a 2019 World Cup win for the Lionesses when the sides last met.

      What TV channel is it on and can it be live streamed?

      England vs Scotland will be broadcast LIVE on ITV 1.
      Coverage is scheduled to commence from 7:30pm BST – 15 minutes before kick-off.
      Fans can also stream the match live through ITVX
      Alternatively, SunSport will have minute-by-minute action through our live blog including pre-match and post-match reaction.

      Can I watch it for FREE?
      Yes!
      Fans can watch England vs Scotland for FREE in the UK as long as you have a valid TV license.
      Most read in Football
      What is the team news?
      Sarina Wiegman has replaced injured Lotte Wubben-Moy for Lucy Parker.
      The England gaffer has also confirmed that Kiera Walsh (calf) and Bethany England (hip) will miss out too.
      Lotte Wubben-Moy has been ruled out for this encounter with a muscular injuryCredit: Rex
      England full squad
      Goalkeepers: Mary Earps (Manchester United), Hannah Hampton (Chelsea), Ellie Roebuck (Manchester City)
      Defenders: Millie Bright (Chelsea), Lucy Bronze (Barcelona), Jess Carter (Chelsea), Niamh Charles (Chelsea), Alex Greenwood (Manchester City), Maya Le Tissier (Manchester United), Esme Morgan (Manchester City), Lotte Wubben-Moy (Arsenal)
      Midfielders: Laura Coombs (Manchester City), Jordan Nobbs (Aston Villa), Jess Park (Manchester City), Lucy Staniforth (Aston Villa), Georgia Stanway (Bayern Munich), Ella Toone (Manchester United), Katie Zelem (Manchester United)
      Forwards: Rachel Daly (Aston Villa), Lauren Hemp (Manchester City), Lauren James (Chelsea), Chloe Kelly (Manchester City), Alessia Russo (Arsenal), Katie Robinson (Brighton)
      Elsewhere Scotland superstar Erin Cuthbert has been ruled out with a muscular injury for this huge clash.
      Scotland full squad
      Goalkeepers: Lee Gibson (Glasgow City), Jenna Fife (Rangers), Eartha Cummings (Rosengard)
      Defenders: Nicola Docherty (Rangers), Rachel McLachlan (Rangers), Sophie Howard (Leicester City), Emma Mukandi (London City Lionesses), Rachel Corsie (Aston Villa), Kelly Clark (Celtic)
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      Midfielders: Sam Kerr (Bayern Munich), Caroline Weir (Real Madrid), Jamie-Lee Napier (Bristol City), Emma Watson (Manchester United), Kirsty MacLean (Rangers), Amy Rodgers (Bristol City), Fiona Brown (Rosengard), Lisa Evans (West Ham United), Amy Gallagher (Celtic)
      Forwards: Kirsty Hanson (Aston Villa), Martha Thomas (Manchester United), Lauren Davidson (Glasgow City), Christy Grimshaw (AC Milan), Claire Emslie (Gotham City) More

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      ‘This is bigger than players’ bonuses’, says Millie Bright after Lionesses reach performance-related pay deal with FA

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      MILLIE BRIGHT insists England reaching an agreement with the FA on performance bonuses is about more than pay.The Lionesses skipper hailed Scotland for settling their pay equity battle before the sides’ Women’s Nations League duel on Friday.  
      Millie Bright says players feel confident about about the bonus pay structure they now have in placeCredit: Reuters
      Bright confirmed the Lionesses had reached an agreement with the FA after resuming talks after the World CupCredit: Getty
      At the World Cup England aces were dismayed a deal had not been reached on their push for a performance bonus as well as Fifa prize money. 
      Under Fifa’s new pay model each player in the squad received around £159,000 ($195,000) for reaching the contest’s final where they were beaten by Spain. 
      And they shared a collective statement flagging “concerns relating to bonus and commercial structure”.  
      Talks that were paused during the Lionesses’ tournament run were resumed ahead of their Women’s Nations League fixtures.
      And earlier today Bright revealed there had been a breakthrough in discussions. 
      The England skipper said: “We’ve come to an agreement but it’s bigger than just the bonuses.
      “For us, it’s about being world leaders on and off the pitch.
      “The women’s game is evolving very quickly so conversations like this need to happen to make sure in all areas we are at the top of our game.
      “The conversation was extremely positive.
      “As players we feel really confident moving forward about the structure that we now have in place.”
      Players’ bonus talks with the FA have been aided by the Professional Footballers Association (PFA).
      While both bodies were tight-lipped on figures, reports claim a collective amount of £800,000, to be shared between the squad, has been agreed.
      When asked to elaborate on what England’s talks around the performance-related pay encompassed, Bright added: “A variety of things.
      “I think it’s the whole package that comes with the women’s game.
      “It is more than just finances, it’s everything to do with the next generation.
      “We are extremely lucky and privileged that we have amazing facilities, we already set the tone in many areas.”
      England’s breakthrough comes a week on from Scotland resolving their legal case over equal pay and improved conditions including training facilities and travel and medical resources.
      Their fight for pay equity was spearheaded by team captain
      Of their efforts Bright added: “I think one thing with the women’s game is although we’re opponents on game day, we all work together on changes that could be beneficial to somebody else.
      Scotland players settled their legal case with the SFA for equal pay and improved working conditionsCredit: Reuters
      “It’s always about growing the game and we have to keep evolving.
      “We have to keep moving with where the game is at and changes that need to be made.
      “So it’s a really proud and positive movement for the girls.” More

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      Liverpool legend backs Spain players’ push for change in football federation hours before sacking of secretary general

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      XABI ALONSO hailed Spain Women stars’ push for “decisive changes” within their country’s football federation.The Bayer Leverkusen boss was speaking after a majority ended their boycott of the national team.
      Spain players including 15 of the World Cup winning squad ended their boycott of the national team on WednesdayCredit: AP
      Xabi Alonso backed Spain’s players’ calls for changes within their federation and the sport describing it as the right causeCredit: AP
      The players’ boycott preceded the resignation of former Spain football federation president Luis Rubiales and the sacking of secretary general Andreu CampsCredit: AP
      Their move came after players were given assurances the Spanish FA was committed to making “profound and immediate” changes to its structure
      And tonight the federation (RFEF) sacked its secretary general Andreu Camps.
      Reports in Spain described Camps as an ally of the organisation’s former president Luis Rubiales. 
      Rubiales resigned from his role after facing a backlash following his unwanted kiss of Spain forward Jenni Hermoso following her team’s World Cup final win against England in August. 
      Read More Football Stories
      Alonso, whose side will play BK Hacken in the Europa League on Thursday, told reporters: “My daughters will remember what these women fought for.
      “Football is just a game. This is why everything that is happening right now can only be the first step. But it is an important step
      “They became world champions, we should talk about their success.
      “Good things can come from bad things if you fight for the right cause.
      Most read in Football
      “The footballers are fighting for their rights and clearly “they are on the right path.
      “After the things we have seen in the recent past, it is important that things change in Spanish football and in the RFEF”.
      The halt of Spain players’ boycott saw the bulk of the 23 called up for Women’s Nations League duty remain in camp after returning on Tuesday.
      The group includes 15 of the squad who helped Spain win the World Cup for the first time in their history in August.
      Players’ protest came in the wake of Hermoso being kissed on the mouth by Rubiales.
      It also followed ongoing concerns regarding the federation’s management of the women’s national side and 
      However they agreed to end their mutiny on Wednesday following several hours of talks that ended at 5am.
      And Spanish women’s football union president Amanda Guitteriez was among the officials involved in discussions.
      Two of the 23 aces called up by head coach Montse Tome before the team’s Women’s Nations League matches left the camp on Wednesday morning.
      Mapi Leon and Patri Guijarro departed group before the games against Sweden on Friday and Switzerland next Tuesday. 
      The Barcelona stars were among 39 players who had stood down from duty this month after sharing a collective written statement flagging their concerns.
      The statement’s included a call for a restructuring of the RFEF and and its organisation of women’s football.
      After leaving Spain’s camp Leon said: “The situation is different for me and Patri.
      “It’s not been the right way for us to return. We’re not in a place to be told: ‘Now you’re coming back.’ 
      “It’s a process. We’re happy changes are happening but we need time. We support our team-mates, as we have done until now.”
      Patri added: “These changes are being worked on and it is true that they have not happened yet, but work is being done.
      “It is quite difficult and hard. Being here, and as everything has happened, mentally you are not able to be there.
      Mapi Leon (right) and Patri Guijarro left Spain women’s national team training camp in Valencia due to personal discomfortCredit: EPA
      “This is our explanation.”
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      Of their decision to leave the camp, Francos said: “They have requested to due to personal discomfort.
      “I hope that the same respect will be given to those who stay as for those who do not.” More

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      in Soccer

      My dad was one of the greatest footballers ever – my career was completely different but now I’m a football chairman

      by

      REALITY TV icon Calum Best has announced he is now the chairman of Dorking Wanderers FC’s women’s team.The son of football superstar George Best has taken some time away from his reality TV career to get involved with his father’s old passion.
      Calum Best has confirmed he is now chairman of Dorking Wanderers women’s teamCredit: Getty
      The 42-year-old was approached by his friend Marc White – the owner of Dorking Wanderers Football Club – to see if he’d like to take the volunteer position of chairman for his team.
      Calum could not have turned down the opportunity of working in women’s football after being an active campaigner for the Her Game Too movement.
      It aims to tackle sexism and champion women’s football.
      Calum told the BBC: “I’d never even thought of being involved in football like this before.
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      “But, I thought there was the opportunity to do something positive for women’s football. And, of course, I quite liked the title.”
      There has been huge growth in interest in women’s football – not least since the Lionesses’ success at the Euros last summer.
      Dorking only formed in 2020 but have quickly established themselves and they now play in the London and South East Premier Women’s League – tier 5 of the women’s football pyramid.
      Calum also confirmed the team have been filming a BBC series titled “Squad Goals: Dorking ‘Til I Die”.
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      But he admitted he took the role before receiving the TV deal.
      He continued: “I took the role before any television was involved.
      “I’ve done a lot of reality TV, but I took the role as chairman for a different reason.
      “I just wanted to do something exciting and to learn as much as possible as I go.
      “It is all new, but this is a professional role. I think people who have watched me on TV before will see a very different side to me.”
      The Celebrity Love Island star grew up loving the game – his father George Best has been regarded as one the greatest players of all time in the sport.
      George spent the best part of his career at Manchester United, making 470 appearances and scoring a whopping 179 goals.
      He passed away in 2005 aged 59 as a result of alcohol addiction – meaning Calum had been raised by his mother Angie Best
      Calum said the decision to champion women’s football was linked to his childhood.
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      He added: “I was raised by my mother, so I’ve been surrounded by women my whole life.
      “Working for a ladies’ team has opened my eyes up to parts of the game I’ve never really known before.”
      Calum Best with his mother Angie Best and father GeorgeCredit: PA:Press Association More