Manchester United manager Marc Skinner has challenged club captain Maya Le Tissier to become “one of the world’s best” and cement her place in the England squad.
Le Tissier has been a key player for United this season, with the Reds sitting in third place in the WSL, tied on points with Arsenal in second.
Her efforts have been crucial in United holding the league’s best defensive record, yet despite this, she’s found herself on the sidelines when it comes to playing for England.
In England’s last two matches against Belgium, Le Tissier has had to be content with a place on the bench, amidst Sarina Wiegmann’s preference for a pairing of Leah Williamson (Arsenal) and Millie Bright (Chelsea).
On Tuesday, as the Lionesses were beaten 3-2 by Belgium, Wiegmann made two defensive substitutions at the break but still overlooked Le Tissier.
Skinner spoke to BBC Sport and weighed in on the matter. He said, “I won’t discuss Sarina’s plans because they are hers to discuss. I see the absolute value in Maya and what she gives to our team.”
“She is a fantastic captain and a fantastic person. I can only see growth in that. I don’t know where Sarina sees Maya within her plan. I just know when Maya comes back to Manchester United she is going to give the same consistency, the same quality and she is going to keep growing.”
“My challenge then goes back to Maya. It’s your job to break into Sarina’s plans as well. Me and her have a relationship where we can challenge each other.”
“Every day she has got to get better. Even though she is fantastic, she has to get better.”
Skinner continued, “I want this player, especially my captain, to be one of the world’s best.”
“She is proving the consistency but there is much more to come. I am really proud of Maya and the growth this season.”
United are back in action on Sunday when they go away to Manchester City for the semi-final of the FA Women’s Cup. Kick-off is at 15:00 BST.
Featured image Matt McNulty via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
