Now that the season is finally over, it’s time to present my FA WSL Team of the Year, based on the games I’ve attended and those that have been shown on TV.
during the FA Women’s Super league football match between Arsenal Women and Chelsea Women at Meadow Park on January 13th in Borehamwood, England. (DP)
Goalkeeper: Megan Walsh (Yeovil) – The busiest goalie in the FA WSL. The all-time record holder for the most saves in a WSL season with 132. A consistent performer for her relegated team. She will surely attract interest from other sides this summer.
Right-back: Lisa Evans (Arsenal) – An attacking full-back that did the job well in defence and offered so much as an attacking threat. A key player for the champions.
Centre-back: Leah Williamson (Arsenal) – Displayed a maturity beyond her age. A solid one-on-one defender with an excellent passing range that suits well the club’s attacking philosophy. Very consistent throughout the season.
Centre-back: Magda Eriksson (Chelsea) – The Swedish defender was a key player for the strong defence that kept many clean sheets. She also contributed in attack with many excellent set pieces and also an overhead kick against Liverpool.
Left-back: Poppy Pattinson (Bristol) – The young defender did very well in her first professional season and is one to watch at the u-19 Euros this Summer. She could have a good future with the Lionesses.
Defensive midfielder: Lia Wälti (Arsenal) – The Swiss midfielder has been at the heart of the Arsenal success. She controls and balances the midfield and stamps her authority on the game in the attacking and defensive phases
Centre-midfielder: Hayley Ladd (Birmingham) – The Welsh midfielder has reached a new dimension this season and received the Players’ Player of the Year award. Her ability to break down attacks is second to none and she has added more forward driving to her repertoire.
Attacking midfielder: Georgia Stanway (Man City) – Following a very successful u-20 World Cup, the young playmaker has demonstrated a new maturity in her play. She has become more efficient and is also a threat with her long-range shots.
Right-Wing: Nikita Parris (Man City) – Parris’ record of 19 league goals speaks for itself. If her move to Lyon materialises, expect her to score many more goals, and to struggle with the French referees as they won’t be as accommodating as the English ones.
Centre-forward: Vivianne Miedema (Arsenal) – Simply world class. Consistently scored and assisted throughout the season.
Left-Wing: Katie McCabe (Arsenal) – The Irish winger has been key in Arsenal winning the title back. She was not really expected to become a starter as there was a lot of competition for places. Her performance level has been exceptional.
No surprise that the Champions make up the most of my best 11. There were many players who have been sensational this season, but we can only choose 11 of them.