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    Barcelona 0 Chelsea 1: Spanish giants beaten at home for first time in FIVE YEARS in epic Women’s Champions League clash

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    ERIN CUTHBERT says Emma Hayes sometimes brings out the animal in her on the pitch.Today the Chelsea captain and the Blues roared their way to a 1-0 Champions League semis first-leg win beating Barcelona in their backyard – the Spanish giants’ first competitive home defeat for FIVE years.Erin Cuthbert fired her Chelsea side to victory in the first leg of their Women’s Champions League semi-finalCredit: ReutersCuthbert curled a sweet strike into the top cornerCredit: ReutersA narrow but vital first-leg victory puts them a little bit closer to the chance of reaching the final for the second time in their history.And it is one that could potentially see them avenge their 2-1 semis loss on aggregate to the Catalan side last year and the 4-0 final trouncing they endured in 2021.Having lifted the Champions League trophy twice in the last three years, the Spanish league leaders were the favourites coming into this game played at the famous Lluis Companys Stadium.However, Hayes’ aces had other ideas. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLIt was a nervy start with Caroline Graham Hansen firing a shot straight at Hannah Hampton in the eighth minute.But the visitors grew into the game.Chelsea had just one first-half shot on target against their hosts who dominated possession early on.They made it count in the 40th minute, though.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERCuthbert shimmied on the edge of the area then fired in a stunning top-corner finish after Sjoeke Nusken outsmarted markers to deliver.There were a few moments of penalty drama in the second half.Watch fuming Pochettino shout at journalist as press conference descends into chaos after Chelsea’s win over EvertonFirst through Barcelona seeing a penalty kick ruled out following the ball striking Kadeisha Buchanan’s arm because Salma Paralluelo was offside.Then when Mayra Ramirez, who was a menace against Barca’s defence, got kicked by Irene Paredes in the box.The Colombian striker had a glorious chance to double Chelsea’s lead with 16 minutes of normal time left before blazing over after being closely tracked in the box.And Paraluello volleyed wide from six yards in the 86th minute before Alexia Putellas fired off target at close range in injury time with the Blues clinching a monumental win.Barcelona were unbeaten at home for five yearsCredit: AFPChelsea had to settle for being dominated in possessionCredit: GettyBarcelona’s penalty was overturned due to an offsideCredit: EPAChelsea will take a slender advantage back to Stamford BridgeCredit: Reuters More

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      ‘Each game matters so much’, says Kadeisha Buchanan ahead of Chelsea’s Champions League battle with Barcelona

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      LIFTING a Women’s Champions League trophy in Chelsea’s famous blue shirt would be Kadeisha Buchanan’s “all moment”.The Canada centre-back, 28, has had plenty of experience of winning the top club prize for Europe’s elite women’s football sides.Kadeisha Buchanan and Chelsea will take on Barcelona away in the first leg of their Champions League semi-finalCredit: GettyThe WSL leaders hope to reach the contest’s final for a second time under manager Emma HayesCredit: EPABuchanan hopes to go all the way in the Champions League with Chelsea just as she did with former club LyonCredit: GettyWith French giants Lyon, whom she left two years ago in June for the Blues, Buchanan has triumphed in the competition on five separate occasions.Her old side currently hold the record for the most trophy wins in the tournament’s 23-year history, having won it eight times previously.The highly coveted prize remains the only major honour to elude Chelsea who, under boss Emma Hayes, have won more WSL titles than any English side.Buchanan, who netted in the Blues’ 3-0 Wednesday night defeat of Aston Villa, said: “That’s what I came here for. Read More Football Stories”To win a Champions League in the blue shirt. That would be my ‘all’ moment.”It’s exciting but you have to take it one game at a time.”I think we’re doing a great job doing that, just focusing on each game and each game being like a championship because at the end of the day it is.”Each game matters so much and you just focus on one step at a time.Most read in FootballWith an FA Cup semis loss to Manchester United ending Chelsea dreams of a silverware triple this term, hopes of a double rest with their Champions League and WSL title hunt.Today Buchanan and her team-mates will begin the formidable task of attempting to knock out two-time winners Barcelona over two legs in this year’s semis.The Catalan juggernauts – unbeaten in Spain’s top tier with 22 wins in 23 games and 102 goals – have been a nemesis for the English league leaders in recent years.The team defeated Hayes’s side 4-0 in their first Champions League final foray three years ago.However, their last four knockout of Chelsea last April was a much tighter affair scoreline-wise.A 2-1 win on aggregate sealed their progress to a June final where they battled from 2-0 down to beat Wolfsburg 3-2.The second half of this season, and Hayes’s last before her reign as USA Women’s boss starts, has seen Chelsea battle for silverware with some key players absent.Long-term injuries have sidelined strikers Sam Kerr and Mia Fischel with both recovering from anterior cruciate ligament ruptures.But  team have been given a fitness boost with Hayes confirming Lauren James and centre-back and skipper Millie Bright as available for selection. Forward James, currently second highest goal scorer in the WSL this term, missed her team’s win against Villa on Wednesday due to injury. And Bright returned to training following a five-month absence with a knee concern. Buchanan believes the depth and calibre of Chelsea’s squad will be key to their push for trophies, including a seventh WSL title, in the final weeks of the season.The defender, who has made 14 WSL and European appearances this term, added: “We always have that confidence and belief that whoever is out on the field is well capable of getting the job done.Chelsea have been boosted by captain Millie Bright’s return to training ahead of their clash with BarcelonaCredit: Getty”Even if they didn’t play three, four games or even if they didn’t start five or 10 games, when they’re out on the field, you trust them to get the job done.”I feel that as for myself as well, if you don’t always start, that doesn’t matter. READ MORE SUN STORIES”You can still just go play football and get the job done just like any other player.”Barcelona vs Chelsea will be streamed live on DAZN’s Women’s Champions League channel on YouTube at 12:30pm More

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      Emma Hayes reacts to Chelsea ace Lauren James unfollowing Lionesses team-mates after Women’s FA Cup semi-final

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      EMMA HAYES has not spoken to Lauren James regarding the Chelsea forward supposedly unfollowed two England team-mates on social media.Hayes addressed a question concerning an incident that occurred during her team’s FA Cup semis loss to Manchester United.Emma Hayes says she has not any conversations concerning Instagram posts with Lauren James following an incident during Chelsea’s FA Cup loss to Man UtdCredit: ReutersBlues forward James is claimed to have unfollowed some of her Lionesses team-mates on social media after Millie Turner sharing a picture of them both tussling for a ballCredit: GettyThe image was among of pictures of United’s win shared by Turner on Instagram and the social media platform XThe picture of James grappling for the ball with Turner was taken after she pulled a goal back against United during Chelsea’s FA Cup semi-final loss to the teamCredit: GettyOn Sunday the Red Devils battled their way to the contest’s final for the second year in a row by beating Chelsea.They clinched a hardfought 2-1 win against last year’s cup winners.After the Manchester side took a 2-0 lead, James a pulled goal back against her old club moments before half-time.The forward, who was eager to resume play as swiftly as possible, got into a tussle for the ball with United’s Millie Turner.Read More Football StoriesIt resulted in the Chelsea ace, 22, appearing to put the centre-back in a headlock with the duo being separated minutes later.Following Man Utd’s win Turner took to Instagram posting a few images from the match. These included a picture of the incident alongside a caption which read ‘KAMMOONNNN’.The image was also in featured in an Instagram story post shared by the player, which included the words ‘See you at Wembley my reds’.Most read in FootballA few of Turner’s Lionesses and Man Utd team-mates liked or shared remarks on Turner’s post which appeared to make light of that moment in the game.And eagle-eyed fans following players’ Instagram accounts claimed James has unfollowed the defender as well her fellow England team-mates Ella Toone and Mary Earps.Turner’s inclusion of the image of her and James vying for the ball prompted online debate between fans with some criticising the post.Ahead of Chelsea’s WSL duel with Aston Villa, Hayes was asked for her thoughts with James having been a target online abuse on social media in the past.The Blues chief, 47, whose side host Villa on Wednesday evening, said: “We don’t look at Instagram. She doesn’t have it, so I don’t know.“I haven’t had the conversation about Instagram with her. We haven’t talked about it.”A victory for Chelsea would see them returning to winning ways and go level on points with leaders Manchester City before their Saturday duel with Barcelona in the Champions League semis.The team are targeting a double trophy win with five games left until the end of the Women’s Super League season.Hayes added: “I want the players to enjoy themselves.Chelsea’s players trained with hailstones raining down on them on Tuesday ahead of a WSL clash with Aston VillaCredit: Getty“I want them to play without feeling like they have a point to prove to anyone.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I see them every day and what they do every day.“I want them to remind our fans once again why they’re a fantastic group of people that try their very best in a Chelsea shirt to try and win games.” More

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      Former Tottenham skipper Jenna Schillaci says Spurs can become one of the best teams in the country

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      FOR Jenna Schillaci playing in a Tottenham women’s football side once seemed an impossible dream.Today the retired former Spurs defender hopes the team can fulfil their dream of reaching a Women’s FA Cup final by beating Leicester.Jenna Schillaci believes Tottenham have the capability to challenge for the biggest honours in the women’s domestic gameCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe team will battle Leicester City for a place in this year’s Women’s FA Cup finalCredit: PALike Tottenham the Foxes are competing in a Women’s FA Cup semi-final for the first time in their historyCredit: GettyA feat that would be a new milestone for the Women’s Super League side who have come a long way from the part-time club Schillaci joined 24 years ago.Back then the team, whose players included nurses and teachers, used to train on a North London council estate and competed at an amateur level.Reflecting on those days Schillaci, 40, who played for Tottenham for 12 years and once captained side, said: “My family are Spurs mad.“My earliest memories are going down to White Hart Lane every other Saturday with my two brothers and just dreaming of one day playing as part of a team.Read More Football Stories“But back then, it wasn’t even really a dream because I never saw women’s football. “It wasn’t visible for me, so it was like an impossible dream.“When I used to go and watch the men’s (team), I would read the (matchday) programme before the game.“I once saw a really tiny section about a women’s team, which I didn’t know existed, but I couldn’t join it until I was 16 years old.Most read in Football“I showed my dad and my mum and told them, ‘As soon as I’m 16, you’ve got to take me down there’ and they did that.“They used to train on a Wednesday night on an estate in Tottenham and it was the last slot of the night from 9:00pm until 10:00pm, a bit late for a 16-year-old to be out.“But I remember just turning up and absolutely, living my dream there. “I would be running rings around the players. I was the youngest by about 15 years because it was a women’s team.“For the warm-ups I recall jogging around the estate. “I’m sure my mum used to follow us in her car, just to make sure we got around safely.“But this was a dream come true and I couldn’t believe my luck that I was playing for Tottenham. “And you’d play anywhere from muddy grassroots pitches to Hackney Marshes on a Sunday afternoon.”Today’s FA Cup semis clash between Spurs and Leicester will be battled out at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.A stark contrast to the muddy pitches Schillaci and her old team-mates once competed on during the early stages of her playing career at the club.Following the completion of a physical education degree at Greenwich University and stints at Queen Park Rangers, and Enfield Town, Schillaci returned to playing for the side in 2009.She went on skipper the team, that once competed in the Greater London Women’s Football League, helping them rise up the pyramid to promotion to the WSL in 2019.Since Schillaci’s retirement in June 2020, Spurs achieved their highest ever top-flight finish in fifth spot two years ago before avoiding relegation and finishing ninth last term.  This season has seen them flourish under boss Robert Vilahamn who took charge of the side last July, four months after the sacking of former manager Rehanne Skinner.Under the Sweden-born head coach the team have achieved some new firsts.These include beating Arsenal in a WSL derby and reaching the FA Cup semis for their first time in their history by defeating Manchester City. And Schillaci expects the team will eventually challenge City and WSL giants Chelsea and Arsenal for the game’s biggest domestic honours.She adds: “They had a tough season last year in a relegation battle and they survived that.“When you look back at it from then to now it’s like a million miles apart. “You’ve only got a look at the calibre of players at the club.“You’ve got Bethany England, a Euros winner, a young Lioness in Grace Clinton, Celin Bizet and Charlie Grant.Schillaci believes Tottenham’s recruitment strategy, including signing Grace Clinton on loan from Man United, has reaped rewards for the team this seasonCredit: Getty“They’re really investing in the recruitment and they’re also going for younger players now and you can see the strategy.“It’s incredible to see the rise and it’s down to a lot of people. It’s a really exciting time for the team.”The infrastructure that they have there now and have had over the last couple of seasons, is probably one of the best in the country.“And you’re seeing it this season with the team competing with the best.”I think in a short period of time, they will become one of the best teams in the country.”Four years after hanging up her boots Schillaci now works as operations manager in Tottenham Women’s Academy.Among the players who have risen through ranks and could feature against Leicester today is England Under-23s starlet Jessica Naz.The Spurs forward, 23, who has made 17 WSL appearances this term, helped the Young Lionesses to go unbeaten in the Under-23s European League.Schillaci said: “Jess is a key example of one of our own, a local girl has been with us through our pathway, doing well on an international stage.“I remember when she joined the club when she was 15 or 16. READ MORE SUN STORIES”She was a team-mate of mine for three or four seasons. She was a nightmare to defend (against) in training.“For her to be there competing every day with world class players (in Tottenham’s first team) I think it’s pushing her on and her future is so bright.”Schillaci has high hopes for Jessica Naz with the forward impressing for Tottenham this termCredit: Getty More

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      England Women’s star RETIRES from international football at 32 after 84 caps for the Lionesses

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      ENGLAND star Rachel Daly has announced her retirement from international football.Daly, 32, made her final appearance for the Lionesses during Tuesday’s Euro 2025 qualifier against Ireland.Rachel Daly has announced her retirement from international footballCredit: GettyRachel Daly helped England to glory at Euro 2022Credit: GettyShe also played a crucial role in England’s journey to the World Cup finalCredit: ReutersShe was introduced as a substitute to replace Alessia Russo in the 86th minute of the match.Daly announced her decision to step down from the national team with a heartfelt statement on Wednesday morning.It read: “I would love nothing more than to play for England forever, but the time has come for me to hang my boots up on the international stage.”While today is an extremely difficult day for me, it is also one filled with reflection and immense gratitude. Playing for and representing England has been the greatest honour.Read More on Football”During my eight years as a Lioness, I’ve always pursued success and winning football matches, while playing and training with the highest standards of competition, passion and perseverance.”It has been the greatest honour to represent my family, my teammates and the entire country. I have a lot of incredible memories during my time with England that have been pivotal moments.”Winning the Euros and then reaching the World Cup Final changed a lot for me, not only as a footballer but as a person. I’m so fortunate that I’ve been able to share that with so many remarkable people throughout my journey.”I have made special friendships that will last a lifetime. I will be eternally grateful to have been given the opportunity to wear the England badge with immense pride over the past eight years.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”I am very fortunate to have played a small part in making history with the Lionesses and I feel now is the right time to pass on that baton to the next generation and be England’s number one fan from the stands!”I am excited to keep working hard at club level to reach new highs and spend some much needed quality time with my loved ones! Thank you.”Devastated Lionesses collapse in tears on the pitch as bid to make Women’s World Cup history falls agonisingly shortRachel Daly’s retirement statement in full

      “I would love nothing more than to play for England forever, but the time has come for me to hang my boots up on the international stage.
      “While today is an extremely difficult day for me, it is also one filled with reflection and immense gratitude. Playing for and representing England has been the greatest honour.
      “During my eight years as a Lioness, I’ve always pursued success and winning football matches, while playing and training with the highest standards of competition, passion and perseverance.
      “It has been the greatest honour to represent my family, my teammates and the entire country. I have a lot of incredible memories during my time with England that have been pivotal moments.
      “Winning the Euros and then reaching the World Cup Final changed a lot for me, not only as a footballer but as a person. I’m so fortunate that I’ve been able to share that with so many remarkable people throughout my journey.
      “I have made special friendships that will last a lifetime. I will be eternally grateful to have been given the opportunity to wear the England badge with immense pride over the past eight years.
      “I am very fortunate to have played a small part in making history with the Lionesses and I feel now is the right time to pass on that baton to the next generation and be England’s number one fan from the stands!
      “I am excited to keep working hard at club level to reach new highs and spend some much needed quality time with my loved ones! Thank you.”

      Daly has earned 84 England caps since her first senior call-up in 2016.She was also a part of the squad that won Euro 2022 at Wembley two years ago.And she remained a crucial member of Sarina Wiegman’s starting line-up throughout last summer’s World Cup, when the Lionesses narrowly missed out on the trophy following a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the final.Discussing Daly’s retirement, England manager Wiegman said: “Rachel has been an incredible part of our story and the history we’ve made together. It has been a privilege to work with her.”I have never worked with a player so versatile, always with a smile on her face, bringing energy and trying to do her best for the team.”Off the pitch she is always up for a joke or a nice conversation. She’ll be missed not just by me but all the other staff members, players and of course the fans.”It is sad that she won’t be with us anymore, but we should celebrate what she has done for the team and now she becomes our No.1 fan. I would love to see her in the stands in future cheering for us and helping us to get some more wins.”Despite retiring from international football, Daly is set to continue with Aston Villa.The striker, who can also play as a full-back, joined the Women’s Super League side from Houston Dash in 2022.She received the WSL Golden Boot at the end of the 2022-23 campaign and was named PFA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year.However, with Aston Villa struggling in the league, she has struggled to reach the same heights this season.READ MORE SUN STORIESDaly has also played for Leeds United, Lincoln Ladies, Los Angeles Strikers, LA Blues and SoCal FC.And she represented Team GB at the 2021 Olympic Games in Tokyo.Daly’s career honours
      Individual:

      NWSL Second XI (2018, 2021)
      NWSL Challenge Cup MVP (2020)
      NWSL Challenge Cup Best XI (2020)
      NWSL Challenge Cup Golden Boot (2020)
      PFA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year (2022-23)
      PFA WSL Team of the Year (2022-23)
      WSL Player of the Season (2022-23)
      WSL Golden Boot (2022-23)

      England:

      FIFA Women’s World Cup runner-up (2023)
      UEFA Women’s European Championship winner (2022)
      Women’s Finalissima winner (2023)
      She Believes Cup winner (2019)
      Arnold Clark Cup winner (2022, 2023) More

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      Ellie Roebuck opens up on hope of making ‘safe and quick’ return to football after suffering a stroke

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      ELLIE ROEBUCK’S outlook on life has taken “a massive shift” after she suffered a stroke.It is ten days since the England goalkeeper, 24, bravely opened up on her “road to recovery” from a left occipital infarct – a type of stroke caused by a blood clot clogging an artery in the brain, often causing problems with vision or even loss of sight.Ellie Roebuck says being on the road to recovery from a stroke has altered her outlook on lifeCredit: GettyThe Man City and England goalkeeper has no intention of putting herself under pressure as she targets a ‘safe and quick’ return to footballCredit: GettyRoebuck, who has made 92 top-flight Manchester City appearances, said: “At the start, it’s kind of scary because your understanding is not really there.”I’m not a doctor so I didn’t really, fully understand what was going on.”I went through a period of time where I wasn’t feeling too well, and I was struggling to perform.“I knew something was wrong, but it was never something that crossed my mind in order to realise it would be something as serious as that.Read More Football Stories “But I’ve been surrounded by great medical professionals, and I’m able to follow their advice on this road to recovery.”I’m in a fortunate position where my support network of medical health experts has been amazing.”I’m able to follow their advice on this road to recovery.”Football’s my love and my passion.Most read in Football”It’s something that I’m glad I’ve got to focus on, in order to get back to the pitch and get back playing – it’s a great aim.”As a professional athlete, you always like to have targets and challenges. And for me, there is no better challenge.”This is just a powerful reminder that life is super unpredictable.”Three years ago, it would have been unthinkable to imagine Roebuck not being a starter in goal for club and country.Back in February 2021, the Sheffield-born shot stopper had signed a new three-year deal with WSL giants City.That contract came two months after the then-England starter had been shortlisted for Fifa’s Best Women’s Goalkeeper gong.Roebuck’s nomination had followed a 2019-20 season where she kept ten WSL clean sheets – miles ahead of any of her rival goalkeepers in the English top-flight.However, the Man City ace has not played a competitive club game since last May when she was sent off during a 2-1 loss to Manchester United.For Roebuck, whose City contract expires at the end of this season, her hope is to make a comeback on the pitch in the safest way possible.Roebuck hopes Man City make their end to this WSL season a title-winning oneCredit: GettyThe tests that uncovered her having suffered an occipital infarct, also concluded there was no lasting damage to her brain or vision.Roebuck, who reportedly attracted January transfer from Barcelona, added: “I’m at a time where I’ve got to listen to my body.“But I’ve got great medical professionals who I listen to. “For me it’s about getting back to football as quickly and as safely as possible – that’s my priority. “But I’m not putting any pressure on myself.”It’s no secret I’m out of contract with Man City at the end of the season, but I’m excited for what’s around the corner.”It is two years since Roebuck was named in the England squad that won the 2022 Women’s Euros.However, the goalkeeper, who also was part of the Lionesses group that reached last summer’s World Cup final, was left out of Sarina Wiegman’s squad last November.Today will see Roebuck’s England pals play the Republic of Ireland with both teams targeting their first win in the qualifiers for next year’s Euros.And in the future, she hopes to again be part of a Lionesses group vying for European glory.The 11-cap England keeper said: “To be a part of the squad that won (the Euros) was incredible. And to do that back-to-back would just be a dream.”My perception on life has taken a massive shift and this is something I’d be grateful to be a part of again.“I’m excited to watch the girls and support them in the Euros qualifiers.”Roebuck insists her health concerns has given her extra food for thought around planning for the future in particular when it comes financial matters. I really look after my body. I’ve been performing at high level for so long that I never really expected something like this to happen.Ellie Roebuck Off the pitch the WSL ace is hoping to encourage members of the public to learn about individual savings accounts and financial planning.The City keeper is collaborating with the free-to-use smart money app Plum.According to its creators, it aims to improve people’s financial resilience.Roebuck said: “I’ve been fortunate enough to live without any health scares up to now.”This current period of my life has made me understand more about how important looking after your money is.“For anybody I would really affirm that it is important to have these kinds of things in check because you never know what’s around the corner. “I’m young, fit, healthy and I really look after my body and take care in everything I do. “I’ve been performing at high level for so long that I never really expected something like this to happen. “I guess if I use it as a learning curve, then I would reiterate how important it is to look after the money you and try and make sure you have some financial stability.”On the pitch, Roebuck hopes to see Man City win their first Women’s Super League title since 2016.Gareth Taylor’s side are currently top of the WSL ahead of their clash with West Ham next Sunday.However, title holders Chelsea, who are second and three points behind, have a game in hand and host Aston Villa on April 17.For Roebuck, a Man City title win this term would be the perfect send-off for club heroine Steph Houghton.The City skipper, who turns 36 this month, will retire at the end of this season – ending a trophy-laden career spanning more than 20 years.Roebuck adds: “I refer to Steph as a superhero because, on and off the pitch, she’s overcome so many challenges. “She has been a driving force for the women’s game.”She’s such a special person and to watch how she has put her stamp on the game is inspiring. READ MORE SUN STORIES”The buzz around the training ground is massive and it’s nice to be a part and get into the nitty gritty end of the season.“It’s a nice refreshing challenge.. hopefully we can get some silverware and that would be nice with the skipper announcing her retirement to get something special.”Roebuck hopes Man City can be crowned WSL champions this term with Steph Houghton retiring at the end of the seasonCredit: Reuters More

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      Leah Williamson looking forward to playing for England after ‘emotional’ return to Lionesses squad

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      LEAH WILLIAMSON admits being back in England’s squad has been “emotional” with her return to national action drawing closer. On Tuesday, Williamson is due to make her international comeback when her team play the Republic of Ireland in the Euros qualifiers. Leah Williamson is set to captain England tomorrow in her first appearance for the Lionesses since last AprilCredit: PASarina Wiegman’s side will face the Republic of Ireland in their second game of the qualifiers for the 2025 EurosCredit: PAEileen Gleeson’s Republic of Ireland players are after their first win of the qualifiersCredit: SportsfileThe group stage clash between the Euros champs and Eileen Gleeson’s contest hopefuls will be Williamson’s first game in an England shirt since last April.  It comes almost a year after a knee ligament rupture on Arsenal duty led to the 43-capped Lioness missing last year’s World Cup.  Her last appearance for the Lionesses was on April 11th last year when Sarina Wiegman’s side fell to a 2-0 friendly loss to Australia. Five days before that game, Williamson led the Lionesses to victory against Brazil in the Women’s Finalissima.Read More Football StoriesWhile she was called up before England’s February friendly defeats of Austria and Italy, a hamstring issue forced her to withdraw from the squad. Williamson, who was on the bench for England’s Friday night draw against Sweden, said: “I’m an emotional person and you’ve all seen me cry on many occasions. “But it was emotional for me on Friday because if there’s a team that you want to play for in the world, I think the Lionesses will be up there. “I love playing for England. I don’t think I was a calming presence for anyone during the World Cup, especially. Most read in Football”But I’ve enjoyed watching the girls, I’ve enjoyed being a part of that journey and in a different way. “I’ve got people that play for the team who are very important to me.”But it’s been a difficult journey and I’d be lying if I said this wasn’t the thing that I sort of have my focus on. “This is where I wanted to get back to. I wanted to be good enough to get back into this squad.”Williamson, who made her senior England debut in a World Cup qualifier defeat of Russia in 2018, made history when she captained the side to Euros glory in 2022.Of the difference the centre-back could make to her team, Lionesses boss Wiegman said: “In possession, she’s just very bright. “She finds the right pass, the flexibility with the defence being able to defend the space behind her together with everyone else.”Defending doesn’t just start with one player, it starts with the team.”But that’s what I hope Leah will bring to the team.”England’s duel with their rivals at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium will see both teams chasing their first win in their quest to qualify for the Euros. Only the top two teams from their group are guaranteed automatic qualification with the third and fourth-placed sides entering play-offs. The Republic of Ireland, who competed in a Women’s World Cup for the first time ever last year, are currently bottom of group A3 in League One after their narrow 1-0 loss to France on FridayAnd Williamson expects the Lionesses will come a well-organised side on Tuesday.Of the challenge she expects England to face, Williamson added: “I’m expecting them to be really disciplined in the way that they defend.”We saw their result against France, so I think it’s going to be a test for us to move the ball and move them. “They’ve got key players up top but also a strong defensive line as well. “I know those girls really well so it’s going to it’s going be a good one.”Williamson and Lotte Wubben-Moy will be up against Arsenal team-mate and Republic of Ireland ace Katie McCabeCredit: GettyAmong the Republic of Ireland’s key players is Williamson’s Arsenal team-mate Katie McCabe.The versatile winger, made history last summer when she became the first player to score for her country at a Women’s World Cup during their group stage duel with Canada.On if she has had any contact with her Gunners team-mate before the game, Williamson said: “There’s been no contact. “She would know that there’s no communication this week. That’s not necessary.Of the threat McCabe poses to England, the Lioness captain adds: “Katie is a big personality, someone who is very proud of where she comes from.McCabe was part of the Rep. of Ireland side that lost 1-0 to France in their opening Euros qualifier gameCredit: Sportsfile”She has been authentic with that, with the fans so a lot of people connect to her in that way.READ MORE SUN STORIES”She knows her strengths and she has those strengths that can be game-changing as well.“And she is someone who has raised the profile of the game, her game, and subsequently Arsenal.” More

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      England’s Lauren Hemp ready for ‘tough and physical’ Euros qualifier challenge from the Republic of Ireland

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      LAUREN HEMP is relishing a physical test against the Republic of Ireland after England’s tough Euros qualifier draw against Sweden.And the Lioness, 23, wants the European champs to strike fear in their rivals as they chase the first win of their push to play in next year’s contest.Lauren Hemp wants England to seal their first win in the qualifiers for the 2025 Women’s Euros following their 1-1 draw against SwedenCredit: GettyThe Lionesses are currently third in group one of League A after sharing the spoils with Sweden in their first game in the contest’s qualifiersCredit: AlamyThe Republic of Ireland will be England next opponents. The team fell to a narrow 1-0 home loss to FranceCredit: SportsfileHemp came close to scoring in the dying stages of England’s Wembley duel with Sweden.Their qualifier opener ended 1-1 after Fridolina Rolfo levelled in the second half following Alessia Russo’s headed first-half goal.The result leaves Sarina Wiegman’s side third in their group before their Tuesday night clash with the Republic of Ireland. Only the top two teams from the four groups of League A of the Euros qualifiers are guaranteed automatic qualification for the tournament Teams that finish outside those positions will battle for the 2025’s remaining places via play-offs against national teams from Leagues C and B. Ahead of the game at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium, 55-capped Hemp said: “We let it slip and we let Sweden score and it’s very annoying.“We had lots of chances that we couldn’t put away and could have been a bit tighter on the ball at times but it’s on to the next (match).“It’s going to be a very physical game (against the Republic of Ireland) but we’re all up for it.Most read in Football“We’ve all played in big games before and I’m excited to go there, I’ve not played there (at the Aviva) before.“It’s going to be a tough game, we know that, but we also know how good we are as a squad and we can take on anyone.”England’s score draw against Sweden included Arsenal’s Lotte Wubben-Moy making her first start under Wiegman in a Euros qualifier.And her club and country team-mate Leah Williamson, who skippered England to Euros glory two years ago, was named on the benchThe 13-capped centre-back, 25 said: “Sarina said, ‘Go out and enjoy it. You’ve earned it’.“That put a smile on my face because delayed gratification brings a lot of joy and I wouldn’t have wanted to get a start without it being justified.Of the 1-1 end to their duel with Sweden, Wubben-Moy added: “We’re quite disappointed in general because this is the first step in our qualification journey.“There’s a lot we can learn from this both personally but also collectively as a team.“We posed Sweden challenges and we’ve got to look at that and take the positives with that too.The Republic of Ireland whose stars include Arsenal’s Katie McCabe, fell to a narrow 1-0 loss to France.“The result leaves them bottom of what has been dubbed a group of death the qualifiers for a place in next year’s Euros in SwitzerlandAnd with England playing in the qualifiers for the first time as contest champions, Hemp hopes opponents will fear the threat posed by her team.The forward added: “We are European champions, and we want to keep that. Herve Renard’s France are currently top of group A1 in the Women’s Euros qualifiers following their win against the Republic of IrelandCredit: AFP”It’s important for us to win as many games as possible and get ourselves back in and amongst it.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s good to have teams come up and be like, ‘Oh my God, we’ve got England’, that’s what we want to be.“We want to be a hard-working team, hard to beat. I think it’s great having that.” More

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      Sarina Wiegman says Leah Williamson is in a “good place” with England ace closer to comeback

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      SARINA WIEGMAN insists Leah Williamson is in a good place with the Arsenal star nearing her long-awaited England return.And the Lionesses boss confirmed the centre-back, 27, would captain her side should she feature against Sweden on Friday evening.Leah Williamson returned to full training with her England team-mates ahead of their Euros qualifier match against SwedenCredit: GettyWilliamson’s last appearance for England was in a 2-0 friendly loss to Australia last AprilCredit: PAEverton’s Hanna Bennison is among the WSL stars who could feature for Sweden when they take on the Lionesses at WembleyCredit: AlamyEngland will face the World Cup semi-finalists at Wembley in their Women’s Euros qualifying opener. The clash comes after 43-capped Williamson took part in a full-training session on Thursday after doing an individualised session on Tuesday.Wiegman said: “We needed to manage her a little bit. She had a full training session on Wednesday.”She’s still building but she’s in a good place and ready.”It’s really good that she’s back, first of all for herself, because she’s so excited to come back.”And that means she’s fit so it’s good to have another quality player in the squad.”Williamson, who last played for the Lionesses last April before being sidelined by a serious knee, is among eight England aces who played in the Conti Cup final on Sunday.The match saw Arsenal beat Chelsea 1-0 before ending with an angry exchange between Blues chief Emma Hayes and Gunners boss Jonas Eidevall.Most read in FootballA touchline spat occurred between the rival WSL bosses following a throw-in dispute involving Eidevall and Chelsea’s Erin Cuthbert. It was preceded by the Blues wanting to use a multi-ball system despite initially opting for a single ball usage.And it was followed by Hayes shoving the Gunners gaffer shortly after the final whistle. On Wednesday the FA confirmed they will not be taking action against either bosses with Hayes accusing Eidevall of “male aggression”.Wiegman, 54 said: “It (the Conti Cup) was a great final, very competitive, so that emotion goes up.”I haven’t been there in that situation so of course I do not want to comment on that one day before we go into our most important game.On if she has concerns about the touchline behaviour of managers, Wiegman added: “In general – not just in this specific situation but in general – we are an example as coaches for everyone who’s watching, but also in society. “We’re being watched a lot and it’s good to have good behaviours.”But I just don’t want to continue talking about this. We have such an important game.”We are playing Sweden and that’s what I want to focus on, that’s my main job right now.”England will be without the services of goalkeeper Khiara Keating with the Manchester City starlet, 19, withdrawing from the squad due to the knee.Keating’s departure has led to Wiegman calling up Southampton shot stopper Kayla Rendell.The Women’s Championship ace, who was voted Saints player of the season last term, has made four appearances for England’s Under-23s.And in a post shared via social media she described her first senior call-up as a “proud moment” for herself and her family.Following their friendly defeats of Austria and Italy in February, Wiegman wants England to lay down the gauntlet for their rivals in the Women’s Euros qualifiers.A clash with the Republic of Ireland in Dublin next Tuesday will following their duel with Sweden.And Wiegman insists her side have put the disappointing end to last year’s Women’s Nations League fixtures to bed.She said: “We’ve passed by that disappointment now because we went on a camp in February, and we played two games.”The team really showed this is who we are, this is how we want to play and really showed there was so much energy.Southampton goalkeeper Kayla Rendell has been drafted into Wiegman’s England squad following Khiara Keating’s withdrawal due to a knee problemCredit: Getty“But they were friendlies, although we didn’t really approach them as friendlies.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It gave us an opportunity to play many players, to see where we’re at as individuals but also as a team.”But now, it’s for qualifiers. So yes, it’s absolutely an opportunity for us to show again what we can do.” More