Women’s Super League

MEGAN CAMPBELL has revealed she will leave Manchester City when her contract expires in June.The news comes as USA stars Sam Mewis and Rose Lavelle confirmed their return the National Women’s Soccer League in America.
Campbell has announced her departure from Manchester City after a five-year spell at the clubCredit: Getty
Campbell, 27, decided to call time on her City career after being sidelined for most of the season due to a foot injury.
And the left-back revealed it will be hard to leave the club she has been with since 2016, but that she was looking forward to a new challenge.
Speaking to Man City’s website, Campbell said: “Leaving will be hard as Manchester has been my home for so many years.
“It will be very different and take some adjustment, but I am excited for a new challenge and I am looking forward to seeing what that brings.
“Thank you to all our fans for their non-stop support through it all – Manchester City will always hold a massive place in my heart.”
The Republic of Ireland international’s injury meant she did not get the chance to play under City’s boss Gareth Taylor.
But the defender, who made 45 appearances for the Manchester giants, thanked Taylor for the chance to work with him throughout this term.
The former Raheny United player underwent surgery on a tendon in her right foot in February following damage sustained during City’s 4-1 against Tottenham in January.
Campbell added: “Due to injury, I, unfortunately, didn’t get to play under Gareth but would like to thank him for the last year and the opportunity to work with him.”
Republic of Ireland international Campbell has battled with a foot injury at Man City this seasonCredit: Sportsfile – Subscription

Taylor, 48, was complimentary of Campbell’s contribution to City’s campaign despite her season be derailed by the problem with her foot.
And the Academy stadium boss said he was pleased to have worked with the ex-Raheny United player during his tenure.
Taylor said: “Unfortunately, due to circumstances outside of both our control, I haven’t been able to work with Megan on the pitch as much as I would have liked to.
“She’s been a pleasure to have in the squad however and leaves Manchester City having made her mark on the club.
“Playing her part in a number of the team’s successes, and we wish her nothing but the best in her future career, wherever that takes her.”
Campbell sealed a 2016 switch to Man City under former gaffer Nick Cushing after a two-year spell with US college team Florida State Seminoles from 2013 to 2015
Taylor said he was pleased to have Megan Campbell as part of his squad during his first season in chargeCredit: Getty
And the left-back’s trophy successes include a 2016 domestic treble with Cushing’s side winning the Women’s FA Cup, the Conti Cup and a WSL title.
Campbell later picked up two more FA Cups and League Cup during five year career at the club making 45 appearances.
On her trophy wins, Campbell added: “I’ve played in Wembley in front of thousands of fans when winning the FA Cup Final, have won a league title in our home stadium and many more trophies that I’m so grateful for.”
Campbell joins US pair Sam Mewis and Rose Lavelle who are reportedly headed back to their native country this summer.
The USA aces are returning to America for a week-long break before joining NWSL clubs after the expiry of their short-term deals with City.

Lavelle, who made 20 WSL and Champions League appearances for City will be moving to OL Reign.
The USA forward had her playing rights traded to OL Reign by her old club Washington Spirit for £71,000.
And Lavelle’s international team-mate Mewis will rejoin North Carolina Courage.
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Rose Lavelle will join NWSL giants OL Reign after her rights were traded by Washington SpiritCredit: Rex
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CASEY STONEY paid a heartfelt tribute to Red Devils followers a day after Leicester City knocked her former side out of the Women’s FA Cup.  And the Foxes have been heavily linked with a summer swoop for Man United forward Jess Siggsworth, according to The Athletic.
Casey Stoney says it has been “a privilege” to lead Man United WomenCredit: Rex
Jess Siggsworth has been linked with a move from Man United to Leicester City WomenCredit: Getty
This month Stoney, 39, announced her Red Devils departure after a three-year spell in charge of the club leading them to promotion from the Women’s Championship to the WSL.
And she took charge of her last game as Man United boss overseeing the team’s FA Cup clash with WSL newbies Leicester City. 
But the team suffered a surprise 3-2 loss to Jonathan Morgan’s aces who progressed to the contest’s quarter-finals to be played in September. 
In a post shared with her 98,000 followers on Twitter Stoney wrote: “There are not enough words or actions that can do justice to how grateful and thankful I am to my players, my staff and the fans. 
“It has been an honour and a privilege to lead this group of incredible people. 
“They inspired me every day to work harder to be a better manager and a better person. 
“I have memories that I will take with me forever!! They will always have a special place in my heart.
“I would like to thank my family who have been by my side through everything. 
“We have shared and celebrated the good moments together and they have given me strength and purpose in the tough moments. Thank you for standing with me always.”
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Jess Siggsworth, 26, could also be set for a United departure with The Athletic reporting the forward could be on her way to Leicester City. 
The former Doncaster Rovers Belles’ ace – who moved to United after a two-year spell with the Belles from 2016 to 2018 – is thought to be in advanced talks with the Foxes. 
And it is reported the forward, who made 14 WSL appearances netting three league goals this term, is also a target for Tottenham. 
Meanwhile, Siggsworth’s team-mate Lauren James has also been linked with a United exit amid reports of interest from Chelsea.  
And The Athletic claims Red Devils players expect American superstars Tobin Heath and Christen Press to return to the USA. 
The speculation follows a dramatic week for United amid reports of coaching staff’s concerns over training provisions for the women’s team and budgets for players and staff. 
Leicester will compete in the Women’s FA Cup quarter finals in SeptemberCredit: Zuma Press
This month The Telegraph revealed the ex-Red Devils boss had been dissatisfied with the training conditions for her players. 
Training had been moved from the team’s Leigh Sports Village base to Carrington amid worries over injuries that have hindered the club. 
And United saw their push for Champions League qualification derailed by injuries to several key players.
Players included Alessia Russo and Tobin Heath as well as Leah Galton who made a return towards the closing stages of the WSL season.
Man United director John Murtough says the club “is completely committed to its women’s team and to building on the legacy of Casey’s achievements”.
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Shannon O’Brien was on target for Leicester City in their 3-2 Women’s FA Cup fifth round win against UnitedCredit: Rex
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EMMA HAYES reckons Chelsea will be the underdogs in their first-ever Champions League final in a season she sees as her toughest.And becoming a mum has changed Hayes’ outlook on coaching with her son Harry celebrating his third birthday a day after the Blues’ duel with Barcelona. 
Emma Hayes is looking forward to celebrating her son’s third birthday after Chelsea’s clash with BarcelonaCredit: Sportimage
Chelsea hope to win their first major trophy in Europe after clinching their fourth WSL titleCredit: Getty
Hayes, 44, was speaking ahead of her WSL champs historic clash with one of the most feared women’s football clubs in Europe.
Their Barca opponents netted 128 goals whilst winning 26 games on their way to a sixth domestic title win. 
But Hayes welcomes the pressure of taking on Spain’s top flight giants when the teams go head-to-head at the Gama Ullevi Stadium in Gothenburg, Sweden.
Hayes said: “For once we are the underdogs – in the bookies’ eyes I might add.
“But I also think we are approaching our best form. I think you can see that even in our performance against Reading. 
“I think the fact they are overwhelming favourites by the bookies suggests that form over a period of time has earned that right for them.
“They have been building towards their own Champions League success.
“But I really believe there’s another level in us.
“I’m so looking forward to the game and watching us find that level again and seeing how we can compete for the honour of being champions of Europe.”
Hayes’ Chelsea side are targeting a quadruple trophy this year having already won the Conti Cup and WSL titleCredit: Reuters

Victory for the Blues would see them secure the treble and their first major trophy win in Europe at the end of a season at times overshadowed by the coronavirus pandemic. 
It would also see them become only the second English club to win the coveted prize following Arsenal Ladies memorable triumph in 2007 against Swedish side Umea.  
Hayes said: “You have got players who haven’t been able to see their friends and family. 
“All of a sudden they’re having to spend an entire year with the same people and nobody else.
 “I think it’s probably been the toughest in my tenure for those reasons and Covid for sure is unprecedented and something I’ve never had to deal with. 
“When you’re in my position you have to make the decision of whether you are willing to manage such challenges in order to fulfil your greatest ambitions, knowing it’s going to cause daily pain. 
“It has been challenging and it’s a thankless job coaching because you’re damned if you do and damned if you don’t. 
“While I care about every one of my players, I also have to stick to the task and that’s winning games of football and trophies.”
Vicky Losada and her Barcelona team-mates have won the 26 games they have played in Spain’s top-flight this termCredit: Getty
Chelsea’s seismic clash with Barcelona – whose squad includes former Arsenal players Asisat Oshoala and Vicky Losada – will take place the night before the birthday of Hayes’s young son Harry. 
And the Blues boss, who has led Chelsea to nine trophy wins – including four WSL titles – says motherhood has made her sporting successes even more meaningful.  
Celebrating my son’s birthday is as important to me as walking my team out in the finalEmma Hayes
Hayes said: “I know people say my son Harry changed me as a coach. Karen Carney always says it and I wouldn’t disagree with that. 
“I think becoming a parent changes everyone. I feel that with every game that is played or a title we contend for, I take it in more than I’ve ever done. 
“I don’t think about the game next week as I’m very much in the present. I don’t look at calendars.
“I wouldn’t be in this job if it wasn’t for my family. My family are the ones who allow me to go to work every day because they help with child care. 
Every parent knows how hard it is to juggle work and juggle your kids. 
“My mum walked into the house on Monday and said ‘I’m just letting you know, this is the plan for Harry on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.’
“I’m sitting there thinking what am I going to do?
“I don’t want to ask’ and she took it right off my hands. 
Hayes being a mother has boosted her feelings towards Chelsea’s successesCredit: Getty
“My family’s support is what has allowed me to do my job.
“This and remaining present is something I’ve learnt from ageing and understanding that this won’t be forever.  And I will enjoy every minute of it.
“Flying home (from our match against Barcelona) on what will be the morning of my son’s third birthday will be a fitting day. 
“Celebrating his birthday is as important to me as walking my team out in the final.”
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Victory against Barcelona would see Chelsea become the second women’s team from England to win the Champions LeagueCredit: Getty
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CARLA WARD took a swipe at Birmingham City’s owners after she sensationally QUIT as manager.The departing Brum boss revealed she would have loved to have stayed at the helm but conditions at the club made it impossible to do so.
Carla Ward has become the third manager to leave a WSL side this week with Joe Montemurro and Casey Stoney departing from Arsenal and Man UnitedCredit: PA
Ward has been in charge of the Midlands side since August 2020 following a two-year spell managing Women’s Championship side Sheffield United.
And the former Blades coach – who enjoyed a 14-year midfield playing career – had intended to see out her contract with Blues.
But after internal conflicts with the board, her position with the Damson Park side became untenable.
Ward, 37, said: “Everybody that knows me knows I don’t go down without a fight.
“I want to push and knock on every single possible door first, and try to find a way.
“So of course I would have liked to of stayed, I would have liked to have seen out my contract and be here for a little bit longer.
“But ultimately, it’s just the position that becomes. I don’t think we can continue to work in the capacity we’ve worked.
“So ultimately, that’s what really confirmed my decision.”
Women’s football has been growing over the years at the game’s highest levels with more top clubs establishing women’s teams.
While Ward thinks this is a good thing, she questioned whether clubs have the knowledge of what the resource and commitment required to accommodate a women’s team.
And after her experience with Birmingham, the former Blades boss wants more clubs to consider these factors before setting up a team.
Ward added: “I think that everybody want’s a women’s team, but I think it’s really working out where women’s football fits in their organisation.
“And do all football clubs understand the size of women’s football? The importance of women’s football?
“I think they’re questions that every single club should be looking at each year when they’re looking at how their women’s club is set up.”
Birmingham Women players went head-to-head with the club’s board members over working conditions and payCredit: Rex

This season Ward and her squad have been wrangling with Blues board members about poor working conditions, contracts and pay.
And after pleas for them to invest in the women’s side seemingly fell deaf ears, Ward says she began to consider her position.
The situation within the club prompted Ward to seek a fresh start although she admitting to having some “unbelievable times” with Blues.
Ward said: “It’s something that I’ve been thinking about for the last couple of months.
“It’s been an unbelievable year and an emotional year.
“It’s been tough at times, but it’s an opportunity that I’ve loved every minute of, but ultimately I believe I’ve given everything I’ve got.
“And I believe now it’s time for a fresh chapter.
“One thing I will say is I will be forever grateful to Blues for allowing me to step into this division and work with an exceptional bunch of players who have given everything.”
Ward had an emotional meeting with her players to inform them of her departureCredit: Rex
Despite Ward’s frustration with the club, officials thanked her for her services and for helping them to avoid relegation.
Birmingham Women general manager Sarah Westwood said: “I would like to put on record my thanks to Carla for her efforts and dedication to the position throughout the season.
“It has been a challenging year given the absence of Blue-noses from any of our fixtures, with Carla galvanising the players and staff to achieve what nobody outside of the Football Club deemed possible.
“We respect her decision and wish her all the best for the future.”
One thing Ward says will miss is her tight-knit bond with her players.
After the obstacles they faced together this year, the departing Birmingham boss said sharing her exit with them was “devastating.”
Carla Ward steered Birmingham to safety with the club finishing one place above the drop zoneCredit: Rex
Ward added: “I come in this morning to tell them, I had it rehearsed in my head what I was going to say.
“I don’t cry in front of anyone, but after the first two words, I had a complete meltdown.
“But I think it probably sums up how I feel about the group.
“You know, it’s devastating to share that with them because you know we’ve stuck together this year, it’s been tough.
“Really, really tough and I’ll be lying if I said it wasn’t emotional from everybody in that room.
“But ultimately I think the time is right to be stepping away.”
Birmingham have another chance to make Ward proud when they face Southampton in the Women’s FA Cup fifth round in what will be her manager’s final game in charge.
The Isle of Wight-born coach believes her side will have to be at their best against their National League side to avoid an upset.
Ward revealed she has no plans to immediately return to management and intends to spend quality time with her daughter.
But when she does return to the dugout, she hopes it will be back in the Women’s Super League.
Birmingham will play Southampton in the fifth round of the Women’s FA CupCredit: Rex
Ward said: “We’ve absolutely got to be at it against Southampton because you can’t take them lightly.”
“It’s just about getting to the end of the season, getting Sunday out of the way.
“The immediate future will be to have a little bit of time with my little girl and relax and reflect.
“I don’t particularly want to get out of the WSL. I love it, I’m not going to lie.
“It’s a league that I’ve thoroughly enjoyed.”
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Ward’s WSL colleague Stoney resigned from her role Manchester United managerCredit: Getty
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