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      Lucy Bronze enjoying being ‘back home’ as support staff welcome Man City superstar after return  

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      LUCY BRONZE claimed “there’s no place like home” as she was welcomed back to Manchester City by the cleaners, canteen staff and receptionists.
      The England star, 28, returned to her old club after nabbing a third consecutive Champions League trophy with Lyon.

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      Lucy Bronze could be set to make an appearance for Manchester City on Sunday for the first time in three yearsCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      And Bronze, who played for City between 2014-2017, admits it was like she never left. 
      She told SunSport: “It would have been a lot more difficult to go to any other club and settle into a new environment, meet new people, new facilities, everything.
      “Whereas with City it just felt like being back home. 

      “One of things I forgot about was the staff, not just football staff, but all the people behind the scenes, who said, ‘Nice to see you again, Lucy,  welcome back’.
      “To see all those familiar faces that  remember me and having a nice chat with them definitely helped me feel settled in just from the offset.

      I want the team to win more silverware, be more consistent, get back to winning the league, push to make the Champions League final and just go to the next level
      Lucy Bronze

      “My aunty and nan are so excited I’m home now.
      “And the rest of my family are really happy that I’m in the country and close to them. They still think of me as their little girl.”

      Right-back Bronze arrived at the Academy Stadium with Lyon pal and England team-mate Alex Greenwood, who   she helped settle in at the shiny Etihad training complex. 

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      Lucy Bronze (right) who triumphed with Lyon in last season’s Champion’s League, hopes to win the trophy with Man CityCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      And the pair are hoping their experience on the European stage will help them break City’s Champions League trophy drought this season.
      Bronze said: “Myself and Alex were announced the day after each other.
      “We did our pictures together in the stadium and the staff were explaining, ‘Your kit’s here, you do this and that’ and I was like, ‘Yeah, no problem, I know where it is’.
      “Alex on the first day of training was like, ‘Lucy, I haven’t got a clue where I’m going, I’m lost’.
      “I helped her out, so it was nice that I knew where  everything was and it was just kind of fitting back into place and picking up where I left off.

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      Alex Greenwood and Lucy Bronze could be set to make their WSL debuts for Man City against Brighton on SundayCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      “I want the team to win more silverware, be more consistent, get back to winning the league, push to make the Champions League final and just go to the next level.”
       Both Bronze and left-back Greenwood  are set to make their debuts today as  City  host Brighton in the WSL. 
      But forward Lauren Hemp is still out with a hamstring injury.

      17-year-old Man City wonder kid Charlie McNeill shows off his talents on the pitch More

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      West Ham 1 Arsenal 9: Roord smashes second hat-trick in two games as Gunners smash 10-woman rivals

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      JILL ROORD hit her second hat-trick in two games as rampant Arsenal demolished ten-woman West Ham.
      Roord put the Gunners ahead only for Kenza Dali to level on 27 minutes in the first WSL game with fans since the start of the Covid crisis.

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      Jill Roord was on fire for Arsenal netting her second hat-trick of the seasonCredit: Rex Features

      Striker Vivianne Miedema’s rocket into the roof of the net quickly put the visitors back ahead.
      Things then hotted up when Hammers skipper Gilly Flaherty was sent off  on her 50th appearance — for a second yellow for dissent on 37 minutes.
      As she marched off, Flaherty roared into the stands: “Please look at the ref’s decisions,” having rightly protested about an offside in the build-up to Miedema’s strike.
       Miedema hit the woodwork before Kim Little and Beth Mead found the net within two minutes of each other.
      After the break, Roord slotted home on 52 minutes before Miedema cracked in another a minute later.
      The craziness continued as unstoppable Roord lashed a low drive to claim her hat-trick.
      Leah Williamson  kept a cool head to slot home the Gunners’ eighth goal, before a tap-in from Caitlin Foord.

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      Vivianne Miedema (right) nabbed a brace as Arsenal thumped West HamCredit: PA:Press Association

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      West Ham skipper Gilly Flaherty’s sending off was a controversial moment in the gameCredit: PA:Press Association
      Dutch midfielder Roord said: “It was a great win. The red card killed the game a bit but it’s a great start.
      “We want to end the season as high as possible and fight for first place.”
      West Ham boss Matt Beard said: “Gilly wears her heart on her sleeve.

      “She was frustrated with decision after decision going against us — the referee’s decisions have changed the game. 
      “That scoreline can’t happen, regardless, but this can’t continue. 
      “Ultimately they are going to cost people their jobs.”

      Watch Arsenal ace Vivianne Miedema score incredible goal against Reading More

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      Arsenal’s Leah Williamson reflects on ‘risky centre-half’ days ahead of first league match in front of fans

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      LEAH WILLIAMSON reckons she used to be “a risky centre-half” who gave her team-mates the jitters in her early Arsenal days.
      But now the defender, whose team face West Ham in the first competitive game to be attended by fans since lockdown, has become a rock in the Gunners back-four. 

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      Leah Williamson and her team-mates will take on West Ham in the first competitive football to be played in front of fans since the lockdownCredit: Getty

      Arsenal, who announced the signing of newly-capped England defender Lotte Wubben-Moy, are set for a trip across the capital to their rivals’ turf on Sunday. 
      The clash will be the first competitive fixture a select number of fans are being allowed to watch in person in England since March. 
      One of the last big football games to be played in front of supporters on English soil was Liverpool’s Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid at Anfield six months ago.  
      The WSL encounter between West Ham and Arsenal is due to be part of the government’s test run of allowing spectators to attend sporting events. 
      It will also be an opportunity for supporters at the game to observe the skills that have seen Williamson evolve from being a “risky defender”  to a commanding figure in the Gunners rearguard. 
      Williamson, 23, said: “I was a risky centre-half and used to probably make everybody’s hearts jump out of their chest three or four times a game! 
      “So to have matured as a player, maybe it’s sort of naturally led on to me maturing in terms of leading. 

      “I don’t feel pressure but I do acknowledge that I have made myself a person in the team that needs to have a good game now, and they expect that of me.

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      England international Williamson has developed into a solid defender for Arsenal following her ‘risky centre-back’ days Credit: Getty
      Williamson was part of an Arsenal squad who finished behind Manchester City and champions Chelsea in the Women Super League last term. 
      And the third spot result for Joe Montemurro’s side means they miss out on a Champions League spot this season – a competition they reached the semi-finals of in August. 

      It is different and we can’t wait to have everyone back, we just want to make sure that it is done properly and done for the safety of everyone
      Joe Montemurro

      Williamson added: “Not having to contend with the Champions League, it’s definitely not necessarily a benefit, because you get better playing against the best teams and those games will make the best teams.
      “But at the same time, you can really make it work in your favour because of the lack of congestion you have when you’re not in the Champions League.”
      West Ham’s clash against the Gunners is due to be attended by a maximum crowd of 1,000 Hammers season ticket holders at the grounds of Dagenham and Redbridge.

      And Hammers owner Jack Sullivan, and Arsenal boss Montemurro spoke of their pride in having supporters see their teams play for the first time since Spring. 
      Gunners coach Montemurro, 50, said: “We hope that it’s the start of something going forward not just for the WSL but all sports. 
      “It is different and we can’t wait to have everyone back, we just want to make sure that it is done properly and done for the safety of everyone.” 

      Gilly Flaherty brands West Ham aces ‘prima donnas’ in explosive behind-the-scenes footage from Squad Goals documentary More

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      Alex Morgan joins Tottenham in loan transfer – the fifth USA star to head for WSL

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      US WOMEN’S star Alex Morgan has reportedly signed for Tottenham on a short-term loan.
      The Athletic reports Orlando Pride forward Morgan has penned a deal to play in the Women’s Super League until the end of the year.

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      Alex Morgan is a vastly experienced USA internationalCredit: Getty – Contributor

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      Alex Morgan gave birth to baby Charlie in MayCredit: Instagram

      Morgan, 31, becomes the fifth high-profile US star to make the move across the pond.
      Sam Mewis and Rose Lavelle joined Manchester City, while Christen Press and Tobin Heath joined Manchester United.
      As the USA struggles with the Covid-19 pandemic, players have looked abroad for some guaranteed gametime.
      The National Women’s Soccer League organised a Fall Series that offers players just four matches.

      Whereas the WSL has started with Covid-19 protocols in place.
      World Cup winner Morgan has not played a game since August 2019.
      She announced her pregnancy in October last year before giving birth to daughter Charlie on May 7.
      Morgan had anticipated a rush to make the Olympic team this summer but will benefit from the extra time afforded by the Games being pushed back a year.

      View this post on Instagram

      The Fam
      A post shared by Alex Morgan (@alexmorgan13) on Sep 10, 2020 at 1:10pm PDT

      And there will be some familiar faces in the Spurs squad after Pride team-mates Shelina Zadorsky and Alanna Kennedy made similar loan moves in August.
      Morgan has had to make do with largely training individually over the Covid-hit summer.
      Her signing is a huge coup for the league and Morgan will look to make her debut for Tottenham barely four months after giving birth.

      Gilly Flaherty brands West Ham aces ‘prima donnas’ in explosive behind-the-scenes footage from Squad Goals documentary More

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      Explosive new Squad Goals documentary highlights passion and character of West Ham skipper Gilly Flaherty

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      WEST HAM’S explosive new Squad Goals documentary has provided a unique insight into the passion and character of the club’s captain – Gilly Flaherty.
      Fascinating behind-the-scenes footage shows the Hammers skipper issuing her teammates TWO rousing team-talks during and after their 5-0 loss to Manchester City last season.

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      Gilly Flaherty delivers inspiring team-talks throughout the new Squad Goals documentary Credit: West Ham United FC

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      The Hammers skipper urged her teammates to “fight for the badge on their chest”Credit: West Ham United FC

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      The eye opening documentary follows the players’ highs and lows throughout their second season in the WSL Credit: West Ham United FC

      The fly-on-the-wall BBC Three documentary follows West Ham during a bombshell season last term in the Women’s Super League.
      The cameras capture all of the players’ struggles on and off the pitch, including their battles with mental health, relationships, paying rent, and overcoming a global pandemic.

      “You work, you graft, you fight for the badge on your chest and if you aint prepared to do that then tell the manager and leave the team.”
      Gilly Flaherty

      In episode two, there are fireworks when the Hammers travel to the Academy Stadium to face top dogs City.
      West Ham are a goal down within ten minutes, and the hosts pummel them with two more before the break – prompting Flaherty to deliver an inspiring half-time speech.

      The Southwark born ace, 29, can be heard saying: “The reason it’s not working is because we’re all to quick to turn around and moan at each other,
      “No one here is a princess, no one here is a prima donna.

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      The series offers an unfiltered glimpse into life for staff and players, including Alisha Lehmann (left) and Jacynta Galabadaarachchi (right)

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      Squad Goals follows up Britain’s Youngest Football boss, which shadowed then 18-year-old managing director Jack Sullivan (left)

      “You work, you graft, you fight for the badge on your chest and if you aint prepared to do that then tell Matt Beard and leave the team.”
      City fire two more goals past the Hammers and Flaherty gives her teammates another emotional dressing down after the final whistle.

      The former Chelsea and Arsenal star is so passionate she is even forced to fight back to tears in the eye-opening documentary.
      She continues by saying: “It’s obvious to see people are unhappy, pack your bags and go.
      “Because it’s embarrassing, it happened last year, and it’s happening this year now,
      “You’re not bigger than this club. And if it weren’t for the manager, half of you wouldn’t be here.”
      Squad Goals follows up Britain’s Youngest Football boss, which shadowed then 18-year-old managing director Jack Sullivan.
      In episode five, Flaherty, shows her vulnerable side by opening up about her past struggles with mental health.
      The inspiring defender reveals her previous battles with depression, anxiety and even suicidal thoughts in front of the entire squad and staff.
      BBC Three’s Squad Goals is available as a boxset on iPlayer now More

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      Chelsea star Maren Mjelde hails Roman Abramovich for leading fight against domestic violence and discrimination

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      MAREN MJELDE hailed Roman Abramovich for leading Chelsea’s fight against domestic violence and discrimination ahead of the new season.
      Russian billionaire Rom, 53, supported the charity Refuge during lockdown, by raising awareness and matching donations made to help the women and children experiencing abuse during the pandemic.

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      Chelsea star Maren Mjelde says the club and owner Roman Abramovich have an excellent track record in helping charities and fighting abuseCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has been praised for supporting charity RefugeCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      The cause is said to be very important to the Blues chief and he played a large role in the side donating their £100,000 prize money for winning the Women’s Super League title to the charity.
      Chelsea defender Mjelde, 30, said: “We are a leading club when it comes to facing racism and discrimination.
      “Just look how the owner generously helped NHS workers.
      “We donated all our money from our league win. It makes me proud to be part of a big club like Chelsea — also for the values we stand for.

      “Refuge is such an important charity, because it has been a difficult time for families and for people in general.

      Many families have been at home for so long and people are losing jobs. The work Chelsea and the owner have done was really positive.
      Maren Mjelde

      “Many families have been at home for so long and people are losing their jobs.
      “Kids didn’t have school, which might be their only safe place.
      “There are a lot of things that have probably been going on during lockdown that haven’t been good for kids.

      “So, I think the work Chelsea and the owner have done with the charity was a really positive thing.”
      The Blues were crowned champions on a points-per-game basis after last season was cut short.
      And after being pegged back for a 1-1 draw at Manchester United in this term’s WSL opener last weekend, they host Bristol City on Sunday.
      Norway star Mjelde added: “It’s going to be a really tough season with a lot of games — but we are prepared for it.

      “We have a really big squad and quality players all over the pitch.
      “We’ve made some good signings which have adapted really well into our team — so I’m really excited.
      “I’m very proud to be a Chelsea player — not just on the pitch but off the pitch — going into the new season.”

      How Chelsea could line-up at Brighton with Thiago Silva, Chilwell and Ziyech all OUT but Lampard set to hand out debuts More

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      Bristol City striker Abi Harrison says teacher’s taunts helped fuel her football dreams

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      ABI HARRISON recalls her school teacher laughed in her face when she revealed her dream of becoming a top-flight footballer.
      But the Bristol City striker is having the last laugh having fulfilled her childhood wish of playing at the highest levels of the women’s game.

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      Abi Harrison (left) is living her dream after being told she had no shotCredit: Rex Features
      Harrison, 22, recently battled back to fitness after suffering an ACL injury that put her out of action for 10 months last November.
      And the Scotland forward, whose club side face a tricky fixture away at the home of champions Chelsea, reckons her tutor’s taunts made her achievements “sweeter”. 

      “You’d miss school to go and play football and there were a few comments, like ‘would I get an A level in football or would I get it in biology’
      Abi Harrison

      Harrison said: “I remember my primary school teacher asked me what I wanted to do when I was older and she laughed in my face and said that (football) wasn’t possible.

      “And then you get the same comments at high school.
      “You’d miss school to go and play football and there were a few comments, like ‘would I get an A level in football or would I get it in biology’.
      “So to look back it makes it all that sweeter.” 
      Harrison, who has been a Celtic fan all her life, recalls another inspiring school time memory that involved her meeting her idol ex-Arsenal striker Julie Fleeting.

      The retired Scotland forward, 39, was part of a World XI side – including Patrice Evra – who triumphed at this year’s Soccer Aid.

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      Abi Harrison got the chance to play alongside her childhood hero ex-Arsenal forward Julie FleetingCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      And Robins starlet Harrison jokingly recalled how she ended up playing alongside the 121-cap ex-Scotland star, when they were both at Glasgow Celtic Ladies. 
      Harrison added: “I did a project on her and luckily my Dad knew her Dad so I was able to do a telephone interview with her. I must have been eight or nine at the time.
      “She was at the peak of her career probably playing for Arsenal winning European trophies and stuff, and I remember I said, do you want to come down and coach me one time, and she said ‘maybe if I get the time’.
      “Fast forward six years later, I turn up to Celtic training and she’s stood next to me.
      “We managed to play together for I think maybe a season or a season and a half.
      “I probably learnt more than ever as a player than in the rest of my career, just from watching her.”
      Harrison and her Bristol City teammates, who lost 3-0 to Everton in their opening WSL match this term, face a daunting trip to Chelsea on Sunday. 

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      Tanya Oxtoby’s Bristol City face a tricky game against Chelsea who drew against Man United in their first match of the seasonCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      Robins boss Tanya Oxtoby said: “It’s definitely a marathon, it’s not a sprint. 
      “Our first three games are as tough as they come – Everton, Chelsea and Arsenal.
      “We need to use those games as opportunities to really challenge ourselves.”

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      Alex Greenwood understands why Man Utd fans branded her a ‘snake’ for City switch – but says it has spurred her on

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      ALEX GREENWOOD says she understands why Manchester United fans are “disappointed and frustrated” over her decision to move to City.
      But the England left-back admits the stick from rival fans has spurred her on to achieve big things with the Citizens.

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      Alex Greenwood signed for City on a three-year deal from LyonCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      The left-back wore was captain of Manchester United during their inaugural season under Casey Stoney Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      The former Red Devils skipper arrived at the Academy Stadium on a three-year deal from European top dogs Lyon, on Wednesday.
      Greenwood spent one-season with the French champions, helping them win a fifth Champions League title in a row.
      The 27-year-old previously wore the captain’s armband for United during their inaugural season under Casey Stoney.
      Furious United fans have taken to Twitter to brand the left-back a “snake” and “traitor” for her controversial switch.

      Greenwood said: “I’ve probably disappointed a lot of fans but for me, it’s about my ambition as a player,
      “And nothing really stands in my way to achieve what I want to achieve. And that’s exactly why I’m sat here as a Man City player.
      “I’m not stupid, when it came out, I understand why people are frustrated, disappointed and absolutely entitled to their opinions.

      Good morning everyone except Alex Greenwood. She can go collect her good morning from fellow reptiles like Di Maria and Tevez. #MUWomen
      — AOA (@opitza) September 10, 2020

      “I grew up in the game. I’ve been brought up around the sport and I’m totally aware of the situation.

      “I wouldn’t say I questioned my decision, but I’m also aware of where I was previously.
      “I gave 100 percent to that football club and no one can ever take that away from me.”
      The first Manchester derby of the season is set to take place on November 15, at United’s fortress – the Leigh Sports Village.
      Greenwood knows she will be on the receiving end of the die-hard Red Devils supporter’s chanting, but admits it will spur her on to fire City to glory over their rivals.
      She added: “Does it motivate me? Probably a little bit, yeah, when it comes to the game,
      “I’ll probably have that little extra buzz on that derby game, but that doesn’t change for any other game
      “I’m motivated to win every game that we play.
      “For the fans, I suppose it’s a day to give me some stick and that’s absolutely fine. I completely understand and it is what it is.”

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      Greenwood spent one-season with Lyon, helping them win a fifth Champions League trophy in a rowCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      The left-back believes growing rivalries in the WSL are positive for the women’s gameCredit: PA:Press Association
      The Lionesses star has also played for bitter Merseyside rivals Everton and Liverpool.
      But she believes that growing rivalries in the WSL are only a positive step for the women’s game.
      The Liverpudlian continued: “I expected this response. For all the negative comments to stand positive, and you know, it’s positive for the game, it’s part of football.”
      “When you wake up on a derby day it’s about the pride of the club that you play for.
      “It’s no different in the women’s game, I think the fans will take that for the league and show that’s what it’s about.
      “I think the rivalry is important, and I think the bigger fan bases get the more that the more that improves.”
      Greenwood is set to make her debut for City against Brighton on Sunday, alongside England star Lucy Bronze.

      Watch Arsenal ace Vivianne Miedema score incredible goal against Reading More