Rather than being banned it seems the ‘p’ word is very much in vogue at Manchester United Women, with keeper Siobhan Chamberlain bursting with hunger for promotion.
The newly-reformed Red Devils began new life in the second tier FA Women’s Championship and heading into the current international break, sit top of the table.
Chamberlain’s quality between the sticks means they’ve scored 20 goals and conceded none in the league so far, with Casey Stoney’s side winning three of their first four games.
The 50-cap international, who made the short switch from Liverpool over the summer, is loving life in the north-west with a return to the FA Women’s Super League on her mind.
“I’ve been really enjoying being a part of Man United so far,” said Chamberlain, 35.
“I’ve got four clean sheets from four games, which means obviously things have gone to plan thus far.
“We want to get up to the WSL and be competing with the top clubs, week-in, week-out.”
When club commitments are shelved next summer, Chamberlain is likely to fight it out with Karen Bardsley for the right to be called England number one at next summer’s World Cup.
But with herself and Bardsley well into their 30s, thoughts will soon turn to the next generation of aspiring stoppers.
Chamberlain reckons Manchester City Women keeper Ellie Roebuck, understudy to Bardsley at City, could well step into the breach and push for higher honours.
“There’s a lot of goalkeepers pushing to be a part of Phil’s squad,” she said.
“We’ve got two of them with us in this camp and competitions for places is strong.
“Ellie played fantastically for Man City last year and she’s a key player coming through.”
England Women face Australia in an international match at Fulham FC’s Craven Cottage on October 9 (KO 7pm). Tickets £10 Adults/£1 Concessions at www.thefa.com/tickets
Image courtesy of Manchester United via YouTube, with thanks.
