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      Team GB Women’s friendly duel with Zambia reportedly axed ahead of Tokyo Olympics opening game for Hege Riise’s aces

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      GREAT BRITAIN’S women’s football team have seen their plans for a pre-Olympics warm-up match dashed with their clash with Zambia reportedly kiboshed. BBC Sport claims the July 1 friendly game between the two sides has been called off 20 days before Team GB’s first match at the Tokyo Games. 
      A friendly match between Zambia and Team GB women’s football team has reportedly been called offCredit: PA
      Head coach Hege Riise had hoped to see her side in action ahead of their first match at the Tokyo OlympicsCredit: PA
      The announcement comes ten days after Man City stopper Karen Bardsley was forced to withdraw from Hege Riise’s squad due to injury, with Chelsea’s Carly Telford replacing her. 
      In a statement the FA said: “Due to circumstances beyond everyone’s control Zambia have had to withdraw from the National Lottery-hosted GB Women’s Football send-off game on 1 July.
      “The African nation – who will also be taking part in the Olympic Games in Tokyo next month – had to pull out because of complications linked to COVID-19 restrictions.
      “Ticket refunds will be issued to all purchasers.”
      Olympic champion Hege Riise, who won gold with Norway at the 2000 Games, will lead the GB squad at this summer’s Games.
      Team GB’s friendly encounter with Zambia would have been the first competitive test for the side who have been drawn in Group E at the Tokyo Olympics.
      It would have seen Riise’s aces pit their wits against an African team who have qualified for the Games for the first time in their history.
      The match, which was due to be aired on BBC Four and held at Stoke City Stadium, was expected to be attended by a limited number of paying fans. 
      And it would have been the only opportunity for Great Britain supporters to watch the team in action on home turf. 
      Team GB will be targeting a gold medal win in at the Olympics GamesCredit: PA

      Riise, 51, is one of only three women in the world to have won an Olympic gold medal, a World Cup and a European Championship
      And the former Norway international had been eager to see her side perform in front of home nations fans. 
      Prior to the fixture’s cancellation the Team GB head coach said: “It has been a long time since supporters have had the opportunity to watch any of the home nations play.
      “The chance to see our GB squad compete before the Games is a rare occasion indeed.”
      Great Britain will take on Chile in the first of their three Group E fixtures in Tokyo on July 21. 
      This is only the second time that Team GB have entered a women’s football team in Olympic competition since the introduction of the sport to the Games’ schedule in 1996.
      Team GB fielded a football squad for the first time in the London 2012 Olympic Games. 
      The team reached the quarter-finals, with the United States the eventual winners after beating this summer’s hosts Japan 2-1 to win gold for a third consecutive time.

      They will then play hosts Japan on July 24 before taking on Canada who are coached by former England Women’s assistant Bev Priestman. 
      Team GB’s opener against Chile will take place at the Sapporo Stadium. 
      And it was at the 41,580 capacity venue that David Beckham grabbed headlines by netting a penalty against Argentina in the 2002 World Cup.
      Manchester City star Caroline Weir targets Team GB Olympic glory like ‘mentor’ Andy Murray More

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      Man City sign Khadija Shaw from Bordeaux on three-year deal as Jamaican say’s it’s ‘amazing’ to join club

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      MANCHESTER CITY have completed the signing of Khadija Shaw from Bordeaux on a three-year deal.The Jamaican striker, known as ‘Bunny’ will make the City switch when her current deal with the French side ends on July 1.
      Khadija Shaw has signed for Man City on a three-year dealCredit: Getty
      Shaw still has to be granted a work visa and receive international clearance before the move’s finalised.
      But City are confident she’ll be granted both and have given the Division 1 Feminine top scorer the No 24 shirt for the up-coming season.
      The striker, who scored a stunning 22 goals in just 20 games last season, can’t wait to get going in the Women’s Super League.
      When speaking to Man City, she said: “It feels amazing to be a Manchester City player.
      “I chose this club because I want to be a part of the environment, the culture and to play for this amazing team.”
      The 24-year-old claimed she’s always been a City fan growing up and revealed she has even got family in Manchester, who were delighted about the move.
      Shaw added: “I grew up as a City fan, and I even have some family members who live in Manchester.
      “When I told them about my move, they were so happy and excited.
      “I chose this Club because I want to be a part of the environment, the culture and to play for this amazing team” 💬We spoke to new signing, Khadija Shaw, on what it means to join City! 🙌Full interview 👇🔷 #ManCity | https://t.co/axa0klD5re— Manchester City (@ManCity) June 17, 2021

      “I’ve always watched the English game and it’s something that I’ve always wanted to be a part of.
      “The Barclays FA WSL is growing and developing tremendously, and I feel as though this is the perfect move for me.”
      City boss Gareth Taylor also shared his delight about signing Shaw.
      He reckons the 30-cap star, will be a valuable asset in his team’s pursuit of silverware next season.
      And he thinks Shaw’s dominance in France over the years is proof of how good she is.
      Taylor said: “We’re delighted to welcome Khadija to Manchester City.
      “She’s a very talented young player and we’re pleased that we’ve been able to add her to our already productive forward line.
      “She’s enjoyed a successful couple of years in France with Bordeaux.
      “And the fact that she finished as the league’s top scorer this past campaign speaks volumes about the calibre of player that she is.
      “Her form on the international stage is incredibly impressive too and we’re very much looking forward to working with her over the coming seasons.”
      Shaw claims she’s always been a City fanCredit: Getty
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      Lianne Sanderson receives no social media abuse for first time in TV pundit career while presenting Euro 2020 show

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      LIANNE SANDERSON has revealed that today’s the first time she hasn’t been abused on Twitter since becoming a pundit.The former England ace shared the news with fans via Twitter after her appearance on Sky Sports Euro 2020 show.
      Sanderson revealed it’s the first time she hasn’t received any social media abuseCredit: PA:Press Association
      The 32-year-old said: “Today was the first day ever believe it or not, that I didn’t receive one racist, sexiest or homophobic tweet after being on TV.”
      Despite the positive progress, the ex-Arsenal and Juventus striker still thinks there’s a long way to go in fight against online abuse.
      But is grateful that people are starting to realise the tremendous impact words can have on others.
      She added: “There’s still a long way to go but maybe people are realizing, that their words do hurt and have an impact.
      “Thanks to everyone for you’re messages today.”
      Sanderson’s revelation comes just months after both men and women football stars united to take a stand against online trolls.
      Premier League and WSL stars took part in a social media blackout in a bid to force tech bosses to do more to stamp out the virtual abuse.
      In the blackout, the clubs, along with The Sun, stayed off their social media accounts from Friday, April 30 to Monday, May 3.
      Today was the first day ever believe it or not, that I didn’t receive one racist, sexiest or homophobic tweet after being on tv . Still a long way to go but maybe people are realizing, that their words do hurt and have an impact. Thanks to everyone for you’re messages today ❤️— Lianne Sanderson (@liannesanderson) June 17, 2021

      The ex-Juve star wants people to understand how hurtful words can beCredit: Getty – Contributor

      Online trolling of players got so bad that ex-Manchester United boss Casey Stoney publicly called out Mark Zuckerburg for not doing more.
      Stoney reached breaking point when Lauren James was subjected to racism on her Instagram.
      The 39-year-old said to Zuckerburg: “@Instagram, is this what you think is acceptable.
      “@Zuck are these the values and behaviours you align with?”
      JLS’s Aston Merrygold heartbroken after cruel trolls racially abuse his three year old son on social media More

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      Leah Williamson signs Arsenal contract extension and reveals aim to win more trophies with club

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      LEAH WILLIAMSON has signed a contract extension with Arsenal for another year.The life-long Gunners fans revealed she can’t wait to continue her fairy-tale adventure with the club she joined aged nine.
      Williamson signed a new one year contract extension with the GunnersCredit: PA
      Now 24, Williamson believes its her duty to repay the Gunners for the faith they’ve have had in her for all these years.
      She said: “I’ve signed because I’ve always said that this is my club. I say it’s a fairy-tale that I’m still here.
      “And I think that I owe the club as well for everything they’ve given to me, and it’s time for me to give back to them.”
      The highly decorated England ace has made 165 appearances for the Gunners and won trophies including the Women’s Super League title in 2019.
      But that isn’t enough for Williamson who wants to bring more silverware to the club in future.
      She added: “I have won trophies and we’ve continued to compete for trophies, that’s really important to me.”
      The Gunners head of women’s football, Clare Wheatley also shared her delight at Williamson’s decision to stay put.
      Wheatley said: “It’s clear to everyone how much Leah loves the club and she embodies everything that we stand for on and off the pitch.
      The 24-year-old wants the win more trophies with the North London giantsCredit: Getty

      “We are delighted that she’s signed another contract with us, she believes in our ambitions and she’s obviously a very important part of the team.
      “And It’s a big boost for everyone – fans, team-mates and staff.”
      The Team GB ace’s dreams of more trophies could come true next season with the Gunners making some important signings this summer.
      They’ve already brought in Mana Iwabuchi who spent last season with Aston Villa.
      And it’s reported that the North London giants have also snagged goal machine Nikita Parris from Lyon.
      The defender said she’s repaying the club’s faith in her by signing the new dealCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
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      Nikita Parris set for WSL return after reportedly agreeing terms with Arsenal amid recent Vivianne Miedema swap claims

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      NIKITA PARRIS is reportedly heading back to the Women’s Super League next season after agreeing personal terms with Arsenal.Reports say it’s already a done deal and will be finalised once the 27-year completes her medical.
      Parris is reportedly on her way out of Lyon and en route to ArsenalCredit: Getty
      Both player and club are wasting no time according to Sky Sports, who also claim that she’s already in the country to do just that.
      Parris is allegedly excited to return to the league where she made her name, after a successful stint with Lyon, scoring 19 goals in 30 appearances.
      She left the WSL as the all-time top scorer with 49 goals in 2017, only to be surpassed by new Gunners team-mate Vivianne Miedema, who hit 50 last year.
      Dutch master Miedema achieved the feat in 50 games compared to Parris’ 110 games for both City and Everton.
      It had been reported that the pair were involved in a swap deal between Arsenal and Lyon earlier this month.
      But these claims were quickly shut down by Miedema’s agent Leoni Blokhuis, who was adamant she’ll be in North London next term.
      Blokhuis said: “Vivianne will remain, as it looks now, at Arsenal next season. That is her last contract year.”
      It’s claimed that Parris is already in England to complete her medicalCredit: Rex Features

      Liverpool native Parris joins Mana Iwabuchi as the Gunners other latest signing going into the new campaign.
      Iwabuchi has already given fans a glimpse of what to expect next season when she scored a wonder-volley for Japan last week.
      With Miedema, Parris and Iwabuchi terrorising defences, it could see Arsenal mount a serious WSL title challenge following their third placed finish last season.
      The alleged deal comes weeks after Parris was linked to a swap deal with MiedemaCredit: Getty
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      Eni Aluko tells rappers Krept and Konan to reflect nation’s ‘diversity’ in We Are England Euro 2020 anthem

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      ENI ALUKO gave rappers Krept and Konan some tips on how to compose their forth-coming We Are England anthem for Euro 2020.While recording the process in a BBC documentary this week, the South London duo recruited Aluko and several others for help putting together the song.
      Aluko gave rappers Krept and Konan some advice on how to compose their Euro 2020 songCredit: Rex
      The former Lionesses star told the pair to focus on the country’s diversityCredit: PA
      And when the pair, best known for their smash-hit Freak of the Week, met the 34-year-old at Hampton Court, she told them to focus on the nation’s diversity.
      The ex-Lionesses star said: “I think what will be really cool will be a reflection of where we are now.
      “Like in terms of the multi-cultural diverse feeling within England.”
      Aluko also reckons it’s the right time for the rappers to do the anthem as their sound is relatable to some of England’s players.
      She added: “I think the great thing is that someone like Raheem Sterling probably listens to you guys.
      “So he’s seeing himself in you and vice-versa.
      “And I think that’s an amazing thing, there’s been a real connection between sport and music, and lifestyle that’s really coming together.
      “I mean even the fact that you guys are doing a song for the Euros.

      Aluko reckons some players in the England squad will relate to Krept and Konan’s rendition of the anthemCredit: AFP
      “Once upon a time that just would not have happened, it’s amazing.”
      The pair seem to be aware that they have to represent all parts of the nation with the anthem.
      In an interview with the BBC, Krept said: “Everyone has a different definition of what England is.
      “You might ask someone what they think England means and they might say council estates.
      “Someone else might say, pubs and fish and chips.”

      Putting together a song to please the Three Lions die-hard supporters is no easy job.
      Krept and Konan have a tough task competing with the nation’s favourites such as Three Lions by Baddiel & Skinner and The Lightning Seeds.
      There has been no official release date for the country’s new battle-cry, but it’s likely to be unveiled when England take on Croatia in their first Euro match this Sunday.
      The 34-year-old was previously critical about the lack of diversity in the England Women teamCredit: PA
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      Emma Hayes wishes Jamie-Lee Napier ‘good luck’ as starlet shown Chelsea exit following season loan at Birmingham City

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      EMMA HAYES has wished Jamie-Lee Napier good luck for the future after Chelsea ended her contract.The Blues decided to call time on the 21-year old’s Kingsmeadow career following her loan stint with Birmingham City last season.
      Hayes has wished Napier good luck after Chelsea ended her contractCredit: Getty
      Napier has been released following her loan stint with Birmingham last seasonCredit: Getty
      Napier played 19 times for Brum last season and helped them stay in the Women’s Super League, but the Blues decided to not to bring her back to the club.
      Hayes’ implied that the reason why they chose not to extend the Scottish midfielder’s contract was because it’s doubtful she’ll get much playing time.
      Which is the reason why the prodigy was initially sent out on loan.
      But the Blues boss is still a keen admirer of Napier and believes she has a bright future – albeit not with Chelsea.
      She said: “Jamie’s a young player and will continue to improve with regular game time.
      “She has a bright future ahead and we wish her all the best in her next chapter.”
      Since the news was announced yesterday, Napier is yet to address her departure and it’s not known where’ll she be playing next season.
      The ex-Scottish Player of the Year joined the West London side in 2019 in a move which she said was a dream come true.
      Hayes doesn’t reckon there’s space in the first-team for NapierCredit: PA
      Napier said it was a dream come true when she signed for Chelsea

      But she ended up playing just three times in her debut Chelsea campaign.
      The WSL champions shipped her out to Birmingham for the following term where she became a regular starter under ex-boss Carla Ward.
      Napier was also part of the Brum squad who vented their frustration at the club’s board over poor working conditions.
      Chelsea’s decision to get rid of Napier comes amidst a busy transfer period for the club.
      They’ve already bolstered their defence with the signing of Aniek Nouwen from PSV Eindhoven.
      And it’s rumoured the Champions League finalist have their sights set on Lyon defender Sakina Karchaoui.
      Hayes’ side have also been linked with Manchester United striker Lauren James as they aim to strengthen their WSL hold and pursue European glory again.
      Emma Hayes responds to Chelsea’s devastating 4-0 loss to Barcelona More

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      Leicester City ace Ashleigh Plumptre ready to ditch English ties and represent Nigerian national team if given chance

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      ASHLEIGH PLUMPTRE is ready to swap her England shirt for a Nigerian one if given the chance in future.Despite being born in Leicester, the ex-Lionesses youth star is eligible to play for the Super Eagles due to her dad’s Nigerian descent.
      Plumptre is ready to ditch her English roots to play for NigeriaCredit: Getty
      And although she’s earned 30 English caps, the Foxes ace admits she’d make the switch in a flash.
      While speaking to BBC Sport Africa, the 23-year-old said: “The idea of me being able to play for Nigeria.
      “With that being an option, I would happily grab that with both hands.”
      The former LA Galaxy star has become fascinated with the Nigerian culture since getting to know her family heritage.
      But Plumptre admits that she’s got a long way to go on her journey of fully understanding the African country’s way of life.
      She added: “What representing something that really means to somebody is very important.
      “Obviously, there’s a lot of things I can openly say that I don’t know about Nigerian culture.
      “But I want to learn because I know that it’s in me, and it’s in my sister and in my dad.
      “We can only get it from my granddad, he’s the only thing that we know in terms of Nigeria.
      The defender is eligble to play for the Eagles despite earning 30 Lionesses Youth capsCredit: Getty

      “I’ve obviously visited Nigerian relatives in America and in England.
      “Seeing this little journey my sister and I have been on, and the understanding of our family heritage.
      “Not just that but watching Nigerian documentaries and learning about the past is incredible.”
      And Plumptre would like to inspire other stars with similar backgrounds to do the same one day.
      She said: “I think with football being my platform, I am using that as something that’s bigger than me.
      “As much as I can resonate with my Nigerian heritage.
      “I feel like I can hopefully inspire someone like my sister or other kids like her maybe in this country or other countries to look at me and be like you know what?
      “It doesn’t matter what your skin tone looks like.”
      But until her dream is realised Plumptre is focused on helping the Foxes keep their WSL status next seasonCredit: Alamy
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