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      Millie Bright says England ‘have a lot of work to do’ before facing Nations League rivals Spain

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      MILLIE BRIGHT wants England to get to “a place of consistency” following a winless start in their first Nations League outing this year. The Lioness vice-captain, 31, says the team have much to do before their Wembley clash with World Cup winners Spain. Millie Bright hopes England can improve their consistency and get closer to their best performance levelsCredit: GettyThe Lioness centre-back and her team-mates were held to 1-1 draw by Portugal in their first Nations League outing this yearCredit: GettyEngland’s next opponents Spain battled from 2-0 down to secure a 3-2 win in their Nations League clash with BelgiumCredit: GettyFriday night saw the reigning Euros champs held to a draw by plucky Portugal after Kika Nazareth’s curled strike caught the visitors out following Alessia Russo’s opener. The 1-1 result at Portimao Stadium  has led to questions about the Lionesses’ recent mixed form before one of their biggest international tests this year.On Wednesday they face a battle with a side aiming to swipe their Euros crown having  beaten them in the 2023 World Cup final in Sydney, Australia.  Despite their Friday night draw, Bright has backed England to get closer to the “levels they want to be at” before their Euros title defence begins in July. Read More Football StoriesWhen asked if she had any concerns about the team’s form, Bright said: “No, not at all. “Football is a journey and we’ve been in this position before when we’re in a really good place and things are going our way. “But then we go through moments where other teams progress and get better. “We’ve still got a lot of work to do and that’s just part of the game. Most read in Football”There is work to be done but we’re aware of what we need to do. “With each game we just have to make sure we keep closing the gap and get closer and closer to the levels we want to be at. “Putting that work in on the training pitch is the most important thing.”Including their result on Friday England have been winless in three of their last seven Nations League games since September 2023. Two of these results include away losses to the Netherlands and Belgium. In two of their last four friendlies of 2024, they fell to a 4-3 loss to 2022 Euros finalists Germany, whilst also drawing 0-0 with Emma Hayes’ USA stars. England’s score draw with Portugal was the second time since July 2023 that the 22nd best team in the world have shared the spoils with Sarina Wiegman’s side. Bright added: “With the (Fifa) rankings people might look at those and think we should be battering this team but as players we don’t look at it like that. “We’ve seen the results they’ve been getting, their performances and the threats they challenged us with. “We’re just going to focus on working on ourselves. “We have to keep that strong mindset to know that we’ve got to get to where we want to be.”Where England fans hope the Lionesses will be next is on the winning side of their next Nations League encounter.An upcoming clash with Spain will see Wiegman’s players go toe-to-toe with the team that denied them a dream  World Cup win in Australia almost two years ago. On Friday their Spain battled back from 2-0 down against Belgium, to seal a dramatic 3-2 win in group two of League A in the Nations League. However Bright believes there are positives England can build on before facing Spain. The 85-capped Lioness said: “As a group we are trying to get to that place of consistency, but that takes time. Alessia Russo reckons England need to be more rutless with scoring chances in their next Nations League gameCredit: Getty”There are lots of things to work on and when you’re playing a top team that poses threats.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I think the biggest thing is just keeping the ball better and the possession all over the pitch.”We need to just stick together as a group, get back on the training pitch and work hard and be ready for a big game on Wednesday.” More

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      Sarina Wiegman eyes Nations League victories for England in their first competitive tests this year ahead of Euros 

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      NOTHING less than two wins is the aim for Sarina Wiegman and England when they face Portugal and Spain in the Women’s Nations League.While the start of their Euros title campaign is five months away, the Lionesses are fully focused on the present. A 0-0 draw in July 2023 was the result of the last clash between Portugal and Sarina Wiegman’s LionessesCredit: GettyEngland will be aiming for an away win against Portugal at Portimao StadiumCredit: GettyThe game could see Nikita Parris play her first game for the Lionesses since November 2022 following her England recallCredit: GettyGroup place finishes at the end of the Nations League will dictate which sides are placed in each league for the European qualifying games for the 2027 World Cup. Teams who finish in first and second place in each League A group stay in the top league for the qualifiers.England boss Wiegman, whose side are in group three of League A, said: “We’re going to approach these games to win this Nations League. “This is also important to get us in the best position for the draw, for the qualification for the World Cup. Read More Football Stories”That’s a little further away, but that’s why these games are very important too.”Speaking to reporters at England’s base in the city of Albufeira in Portugal’s Algarve, full-back Lucy Bronze added: “Everyone’s always going to have one eye on the summer, that’s for sure. “But as Sarina said, We are focused on one game at a time. It is important to us. “I think the Nations League, the setup now, means that every game matters so much.Most read in Football”All the teams around us are getting better. “So it is important that we focus on the here and now.”While the here and now is a clash with Portugal in Portimao tonight followed by a February 26 Wembley duel with Spain, some fans will look at both as a rehearsal for England’s Euros campaign.In 137 days the Lionesses will kickstart their quest to remain European Champions.Their historic triumph in July 2022 was off the back of winning the six games they played at the tournament. Results which included a gritty quarter-final defeat of Spain on their way to beating Germany 2-1 in the final at Wembley. Much has changed on the international stage since then with Spain now a tougher force to be reckoned with, particularly when facing their European rivals. The team, managed by Montserrat Tome, won seven of their eight Women’s Nations League on their way to becoming the contest’s 2024 winners.Their victory last February, following a 2-0 defeat of France in Seville, came six months after beating England in the World Cup final in Australia. In 2024 we gained a lot of experience, whether it was good or bad. We learned a lot from that which is going to give us a bit more of an edge.Along with France, Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden, Spain are among the sides likely to be the biggest challengers to the Lionesses for Euros glory. Having lost and drawn two of their last international fixtures, England are eager to get off to a solid start before this summer’s Euros and their next Nations League fixtures in April.While the team beat South Africa and Switzerland in friendlies last October and December they also drew 0-0 with the USA and lost 4-3 to Germany at Wembley. Bronze adds:  “In 2024, maybe some results didn’t go our way. “The most important thing is when we get to the summer, that’s when we want to make sure we’re performing for that tournament (the Euros).”In 2024 we gained a lot of experience, whether it was good or bad.”We learned a lot from that, which is going to give us a bit more of an edge.”Filling void left by midfield mainstay Georgia Stanway Since her breakthrough as the youngest player in England’s 2019 World Cup squad Georgia Stanway has become a lynchpin in the team’s midfield.But the Bayern Munich star is in a race to be fit before the Euros.A collateral ligament tear in Stanway’s right knee means England will be without one of their most influential figures from their 2022 Euros-winning squad for tonight’s game and their clash with Spain. A player who was the last to score for the Lionesses against Spain in a major tournament. Stanway’s absence has left Wiegman needing to look to midfield alternatives for one of her most tenacious all-round players. Bayern expects the midfielder who helped them to two title wins since 2022  her to be out for “several months” following her knee op in January. The 75-capped Lioness played in all six games for England at the 2022 Euros. Her link-up play with Keira Walsh and Wiegman’s forwards has proven effective in some of the Lionesses’ most high stakes encounters in recent years. In Stanway’s absence Grace Clinton will be among their midfield options in an eight role. Last February Clinton shone on her senior international debut, playing in this position during a 7-2 hammering of Austria. A natural is how Wiegman described the midfielder who has impressed with her dribbling ability. It took the United player, who spent last season on loan at Tottenham, just 19 minutes to score after making her first start for Wiegman’s England.  Grace Clinton could play in the number eight role for England with Stanway currently recovering from a knee collateral ligament injuryCredit: GettyOther potential alternatives include skipper Leah Williamson and Leicester ace Ruby Mace. READ MORE SUN STORIESEngland chief Wiegman said: “We have a lot of things in consideration and you’ll see who we’ll pick. “Of course we think about many, many scenarios, what the options are and at the end, we’ll pick one.” More

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      England ace Lucy Bronze hails ‘brave’ Spain players and former Barcelona team-mates following Luis Rubiales case verdict

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      LUCY BRONZE praised the ‘incredible’ bravery of Spain international players who were involved in the case brought against Luis Rubiales. The ex-Spanish football federation chief was found guilty of kissing forward Jenni Hermoso without her consent following Spain winning the Women’s World Cup in August 2023.Former Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales was found guilty of sexually assaulting Spain forward Jenni HermosoCredit: PASpain’s record goalscorer Hermoso accused Rubiales of kissing her against herCredit: ReutersBronze’s old Barcelona team-mates Alexia Putellas and Irene Paredes were among the Spain players who gave testimonies in support of Hermoso during the caseCredit: EPABronze says Spain’s players have been “incredibly brave” in their fight for change within the sport in their countryCredit: GettyEarlier Today Rubiales was convicted of sexual assault after kissing Hermoso on the lips.The incident happened as she celebrated her team’s 1-0 defeat of England in the tournament’s final in Sydney. It marred the triumph for Spain’s players and the forward, who is currently her national side’s record goal scorer. It aslo prompted an international outcry across the sport with the Spanish FA issuing a public apology. Read More Football StoriesAfter being found guilty of sexual assault Rubiales was fined £8935 (EUROS 10,800), but was acquitted of a charge of coercion after being accused pressuring the player to downplay the incident.The conviction came a year and five months after he resigned as president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). Irene Paredes and Alexia Putellas, Bronze’s team-mates at Barcelona and Arsenal’s Laia Codina appeared at the trial to give testimonies in support of Hermoso Speaking shortly ahead of the verdict reached by Spain’s High Court, Bronze, who played at Barcelona for two years from June 2022 said: “I am good friends with a lot of the players involved around it. Most read in Football“From my point of view it’s been incredibly brave that these players have had to go through that. “It’s incredibly brave, as individuals and as a team collectively they’re fighting for change, not just in that court case but in their federation. “It’s amazing. As an England team we’ve made changes, not for the same reasons, but we stand by them.“During my last year at Barcelona, watching their ordeals after the World Cup, I think it was challenging for them. “It would be nice for them to get back to their football and focusing on that because they are incredible people and unbelievable players as well.”Bronze and her England team-mates will play Spain in the Women’s Nations League on February 26 five days after taking on Portugal. Both matches and the verdict of the Rubiales case come in a month in which female athletes’ safety and abuse directed at female footballers has been in the spotlight. On Sunday Manchester City’s Khadija Bunny Shaw gave a Black Power salute after scoring during her side’s 4-0 win against Liverpool in the WSL. The Jamaica striker was the target of racist and misogynistic abuse following the Cityzens’ 4-3 loss to Arsenal in the Women’s League Cup on February 6. Shaw’s club and a Man City fan group said they were appalled by the “disgusting treatment” of the player who finished last season as the WSL’s top goalscorer. And England and Chelsea’s Millie Bright spoke out against a fan directing expletive-laden insults at her during the Blues’ 1-0 away win at Aston Villa earlier this month. Bronze, who has spoken out on a range of issues facing players in the women’s game, insists it’s important female athletes can use their platforms to push for change and empower each other.The right-back, who joined Chelsea from Barcelona last July, said:  “Everyone is using their platform to make change and to try and be positive and to do the right things. “That is something that is special about women’s sport in general. We all have each other’s backs and try to empower each other. “Sadly there is that negative side to sport in general but we are trying to make change. Khadija Shaw did a Black Power salute after being the target of racist and misogynistic abuse earlier this monthCredit: Getty“We want the world to be a better place, the sports that we play to be better places. READ MORE SUN STORIES“We want to be safe, we want to bring joy and excitement and that is why we all play the sport. “To use our platforms to push those things forward and make change for little boys and girls, that is something we hold really dear to our hearts.” More

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      Sir Jim Ratcliffe blunder as Man Utd co-owner asked women’s captain ‘what do you do here’ during Carrington tour

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      SIR JIM RATCLIFFE has been caught in a blunder after allegedly asking the Manchester United women’s captain, “What do you do here?”The club minority owner was taken on a tour of the women’s facilities and encountered their former captain, Katie Zelem.Sir Jim Ratcliffe did not recognise the Manchester United women’s captain Katie ZelemCredit: APRatcliffe met Zelem (centre) during a tour of CarringtonCredit: GettyRatcliffe, 72, met Zelem at Carrington soon after investing in the Red Devils.Like Ratcliffe, the midfielder was born in Failsworth near Oldham and had been at the club since the age of 8.The Telegraph have now claimed that the billionaire was unsure of who the ace was and was unaware of her role during the tour.The report suggests that he even asked the midfielder what she did at the club during the tour.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLZelem, 29, left Manchester United last summer and joined Los Angeles based side Angel City.She had made 161 appearances for the Red Devils during her time with the club.Zelem has also earned 12 caps for the Lionesses since 2021.She did leave the club between 2013 and 2018 for spells at Liverpool and Juventus.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSIt comes against a backdrop of Ratcliffe being criticised for lacking interest in the woman’s side of the club.Last May he opted to watch the men’s team face Arsenal at Old Trafford instead of the Women’s FA Cup final victory over Tottenham.Inside Marcus Rashford’s demise from one of football’s biggest stars to £60m benchwarmerThey won the final 4-0 at Wembley Stadium to lift the FA Cup for the very first time.He was criticised for his apparent lack of interest and calling the men’s team the “first team”.England star Mary Earps appeared to take a swipe at Ratcliffe when she left the club last summer.The axing of Dan Ashworth was also seen as a blow as the sporting director was said to be “passionate” about the women’s team.It has also been claimed that Ratcliffe did not speak to Ashworth about the women’s team even once before his sacking.Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charity More

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      ‘If there is a message to be sent, it is that we are human’, says Millie Bright on fan abuse of players 

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      MILLIE BRIGHT says speaking out about the abuse she received from a fan was prompted by her wish to protect players who have been through similar ordeals. And the Chelsea and England star wants supporters of the women’s game to see footballers as “human” and “not items”. Millie Bright and her England team-mates are in Portugal preparing for their Women’s Nations League games this monthCredit: GettyThis month Lioness centre-back spoke out on being the target of an expletive-laden insult from fan at a WSL gameCredit: GettyBright, who is in Portugal ahead of the Lionesses’ upcoming Nations League games, was reflecting on being the target of expletive-laden insults from a fan at a WSL game. The England vice-captain said a supporter who had attended Chelsea’s away duel with Aston Villa had made the remark after her for pictures and autograph.In an online post shared via her Instagram account following the incident, Bright recalled being ”hugely disappointed.”While the centre-back usually has “good responses” and interaction with supporters she hopes they treat female players will respect Read More Football StoriesBright, who is preparing to face Portugal in the Nations League tomorrow, said: “If there is a message to be sent, it is that we are human. “We are somebody’s partner and somebody’s daughter. We are not items. “Nobody owns us. We own ourselves and that needs to be reminded and told.”Reflecting on how she felt immediately after being the target of insults from a supporter, Bright added: “In the moment I didn’t actually do anything. I was really taken aback and disappointed. Most read in Sport“That was the biggest thing. Football is opinionated and everyone can have one. I wasn’t actually bothered about the opinion of my performance.“It was more the fact I had gone to the fans to give my time, give signatures and inspire the next generation and say hi to little ones. “To give that time and to try to have a genuine conversation and to then be disrespected afterwards immediately, I just thought ‘I’m here off my own back.’. “I thought ‘I’m so glad it was me and not one of my team-mates, a youngster, or someone going through something that nobody knew about.’ “We go out to play for our fans every single game – whether that’s with our clubs or countries – and we want to make everyone proud. “We’re trying to inspire the next generation. “I’ve heard of a couple of situations that players went through where they maybe didn’t feel strong enough to speak out. “You don’t deserve to be disrespected, especially not when you have given your time and efforts after a game.”England will play Portugal at Portimao Stadium on February 21 in their first Women’s Nations League fixture this yearCredit: Getty“Ultimately, I wanted to protect my team and let them know that if they need to speak out, they have a right to. READ MORE SUN STORIESIf there is a message to be sent, it is that we are human. “We are somebody’s partner and somebody’s daughter. We are not items. Nobody owns us. We own ourselves and that needs to be reminded and told.” More

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      Chloe Kelly recalled to Lionesses after Beth Mead withdraws due to injury before Women’s Nations League games

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      CHLOE KELLY has been recalled for England duty ahead of their Women’s Nations League duels with Portugal and Spain. The winger, who is on loan at Arsenal from Manchester City will replace crocked forward Beth Mead.Chloe Kelly is replacing injured club team-mate Beth Mead in England’s squadCredit: PAThe forward’s return to the Lionesses comes a day after her first WSL appearance for Arsenal since joining them on loan in JanuaryCredit: GettyMead was on the bench during Arsenal’s WSL North London derby defeat of Tottenham on January 16Credit: GettyKelly’s swift return to the Lionesses’ fold comes a day after she made her second debut for the Gunners. Arsenal, who are currently third in the WSL, trounced Tottenham 5-0 in the North London derby on Sunday. So far this term Kelly has made one start in the women’s top-tier in seven top-flight appearances.The lack of game time led to the forward issuing a public statement concerning her wish to be “in a position to give it her best shot” to represent her country. Read More Football Stories The statement was later followed by the 48-capped Lioness sealing a transfer deadline day loan move to the Gunners in January. Kelly was initially left out of Sarina Wiegman’s 24-strong England squad before their matches against Portugal this Friday and Spain on February 26. The WSL player’s return to the Lionesses followed her coming on as a second-half substitute for the Gunners. And she hit the crossbar with a shot during their defeat of Spurs at the Emirates. Most read in FootballAside from Mead, Lotte Wubben-Moy will also be absent from England’s camp this month with the centre-back withdrawing due to injury. Arsenal boss Renee Slegers says the Gunners ace sustained a minor muscle which is due to be scanned today. Villa defender Lucy Parker has been called up for England following a muscle injury sustained by Lotte Wubben-MoyCredit: GettyAston Villa defender Lucy Parker has been named as a replacement for Wubben-Moy in Wiegman’s squad.The group will be heading to Portugal this week ahead of a clash with Francisco Neto’s side at 7:45pm this Friday. They will then face World Cup winners Spain at Wembley at 8:00pm next Wednesday. More

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

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      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

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      ‘It was a tough time but I’m ready to move forward’, says England ace Chloe Kelly ahead of second Arsenal debut

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      CHLOE KELLY vows she has moved on from the “dark time” that led her to leaving Manchester City for a temporary Arsenal move. The Gunners loan star hopes the London club, where she began her senior playing career, can keep their “foot on the gas” in the chase for silverware. Chloe Kelly is in line to make her second debut for Arsenal following her January loan move to the clubCredit: GettyThe England forward joined the Gunners on loan from Manchester City and hopes to get more game time after making one top-flight start so far this seasonCredit: GettyKelly and her Arsenal team-mates are due to play Tottenham at the Emirates on Sunday afternoon with a crowd of more than 50,000 expected at the matchCredit: EPAIt was on January 30 this year, the  final day for player transfers between Women’s Super League clubs this winter, that Kelly learned Arsenal wanted to sign her. On that date the forward, 27,  whose team hosts Tottenham tomorrow, spent some time at a driving range with her husband Scott whom she married last August. Arsenal’s WSL rivals Brighton and Manchester United were also battling for her signature before the Gunners’ dramatic late bid.Kelly, who was practicing golf on transfer deadline day, hopes to help the club emerge as big hitters in the battle for trophies in the final stretch of this term. Read More Football Stories Her switch to the north London giants, from fourth-placed City, was revealed by the club three minutes before the 11pm deadline for WSL player moves. It was out of my hands of what was going to be accepted. But it was definitely exciting when Arsenal called.Chloe KellyAnd tomorrow, 17 days on from her sealing a return to the Gunners, the forward could be set to play when the third-placed side host Tottenham at the Emirates. Reflecting on the moment she learned of Arsenal’s interest, Kelly said: “He (my husband) was sat playing FIFA and he said, ‘let’s go and just get out the house’ “So we went to the driving range and Arsenal contacted (my agent) and there were great conversations. Most read in Football”I remember calling my family straight away to tell them.”My brother went upstairs, put his Arsenal shirt on. I felt my family were really excited for the move as well, which put a smile on my face.”Kelly’s move has seen her join some of her England pals who play for Arsenal. Her fellow national team stars at the club are Lioness skipper Leah Williams, defender Lotte Wubben-Moy, forward Beth Mead and striker Alessia Russo.  When asked if any of her Gunners and England pals had spoken to her once they heard of the late bid, Kelly added: “They were all messaging me”They had seen the news that I could be coming and they were like, ‘are you coming?’ “It was quite short one-word answers (in reply) to them like, ‘I don’t know, we’ll see’. “But as soon as I stepped into the changing room, I felt such warmth and the girls have been incredible.”It was out of my hands of what was going to be accepted etc; “But it was definitely excited when Arsenal did call. “That’s somewhere where I grew up playing and where I learned so much in my trade. “I’m really excited to give back to this club because they’ve given me an opportunity to put a smile on my face and also to play the game that we love.”Kelly’s return to the side where she made her breakthrough at a senior level at 17, was preceded by her releasing an explosive and candid public statement. In it the Lioness expressed her desire to “be happy again” and described concerns of her “dreams being crushed” after struggling for game time at City this term.The London-born forward hopes to regain a place in England’s squad ahead this year’s Euros. But the first five months of this term saw her opportunities to start for Gareth Taylor’s City side limited. So far this season, the scorer of England’s’ tournament-winning goal at the 2022 Euros has started in one WSL fixture. This in contrast to her 18 top-flight starts in 21 appearances in the previous campaign. A run that helped the Cityzens take the title race to the wire before they finished second on goal difference. This Sunday, against Tottenham, Kelly could potentially be named in a first XI line-up of a top tier fixture for the first time since October 6.Her last first team outing in the league was during a 2-0 Man City defeat of West Ham. It was a relief that I had spoken in how I needed to speak and whether my move got over the line or not. Chloe KellyOn how this season has at times felt for her due to the lack of match action, Kelly said: “It’s been tough mentally. It’s been draining at times. “But I’m a professional and I know I hold myself to a high level. “However I think as a human, it was a tough time for me and I’m ready to move forward now.”Kelly’s statement was issued with the forward entering the final months of her contract with Man City. Her current deal with her parent club is due to expire in June with the player becoming a free agent then.Of her mindset at certain points this term and how she felt about issuing a public statement, Kelly added: “It was still a dark time for me because I didn’t know how my future looked.”It was a relief that I had spoken in how I needed to speak and whether my move got over the line or not. “I was grateful to be able to share my words.”Despite the fallout that surrounded her loan move away from City, Kelly is grateful for the special moments shared with her team-mates there and the club’s supporters. Since joining the Cityzens in 2020 after four years at Everton, Kelly has lifted an FA Cup and Women’s League Cup. The 48-capped England ace said: “I’m very grateful for the memories I created at the club and the relationships I built with amazing players”I went there for success and won a couple of trophies as well so I’m very grateful for the opportunity to represent the badge.”Sometimes in life you can’t write the future, but you can always make sure that you’re the best person every day”I try to be the best professional and the best person every day for my team-mates and that was really important for me as a human being but as a team-mate too.”Kelly’s recovery from a knee ligament tear sustained in May 2021 was followed by the forward’s inclusion in Sarina Wiegman’s England squad for the Euros a year later. The Lionesses’ historic triumph in the tournament’s final marked an international high point for Kelly. Chloe Kelly hopes to earn a place in Sarina Wiegman’s England squad for this year’s Euros with the Lionesses targeting a second tournament triumphCredit: PAHer memorable close-range finish sealed a 2-1 Wembley victory over Germany in front of a record crowd of 87,192. Earlier this week Wiegman revealed Kelly had been dropped from the national squad ahead of their Women’s Nations League duels with Portugal and Spain this month. However the Lioness boss suggested the door was not closed on the forward potentially returning to the national side. And with another European Championship on the horizon, and England targeting back-to-back contest wins, she intends to give Wiegman a selection headache. The Arsenal ace added “It’s everyone’s dream to play for England but it’s not a given. “I need to work and get back on the pitch and show what I’m capable of before that. “Sarina has been incredible throughout the process. “I’m excited to hopefully be at my best here (Arsenal) to be able to put the shirt on that I enjoy doing so much.”Before her Arsenal return, Kelly’s last goal in a Gunners shirt was netted in June 2017 when she scored against Bristol City. Sunday could see her back in WSL action for the Gunners making her second debut for the club at the Emirates in the North London derby. Renee Slegers’ side are eager to try and gain ground on league leaders Chelsea who have a nine-point advantageKelly added:  “I’m ready for the fight again and to show what I’m capable of. Chloe Kelly’s last appearance for Arsenal against Tottenham was back in March 2017 when the team won an FA Cup fifth round duelCredit: Getty“I’m really looking forward to stepping out and hearing the noise from our fans. “I’ve been involved in being around the squad for the last three games, the last two games at home. READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s been amazing to hear the fans and they really get behind the girls.Arsenal’s game against Tottenham will be broadcast live on BBC Two at 12:30pm on February 16. 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