List of All Articles with Tag 'football'

Jurgen Klopp praised the impact of Dominik Szoboszlai at Anfield after the summer signing came off the bench to fire Liverpool into the last 16 of the Carabao Cup. Liverpool had to come from behind to beat Championship leaders Leicester 3-1 after Kasey McAteer silenced Anfield just three minutes in. But after Cody Gakpo equalised early in the second half, Szoboszlai struck an unstoppable shot in the 70th minute, moments after coming on, with Diogo Jota wrapping it up with a late goal of his own. Szoboszlai’s rocket from the edge of the D was his second goal since his £60million summer switch from RB Leipzig and another marker into the impressive start the Hungarian has made on Merseyside. “I don’t have to tell him to shoot, he knows that better than me,” Klopp said. “He has a pretty good skill. The next (shot) he had which was slightly over was another grenade as well. It was a super goal.” The ease with which Szoboszlai has made himself at home at Anfield has been key to the strong start Liverpool, second in the Premier League, have made in all competitions as they look to have solved many of the midfield problems that dogged them last season. Asked if Szoboszlai had settled quicker than expected, Klopp said: “It’s so long ago that he’s here that I’ve forgotten what I thought but since the first minute of training it was pretty impressive. “That’s how it is. He’s a top bloke, a top guy and it’s easy to step into the team and the dressing room and stuff like this. “He’s a very naturally confident boy and that helps but it’s super hard work as well and that’s what you see today.” The night started badly for Liverpool when Konstantinos Tsimikas’ early free-kick was cleared and the Greece defender was then left on the deck by Marc Albrighton as Leicester raced away to score. But Klopp said what stood out to him was the way his players responded. “The headline is that we are 1-0 down but it was a completely different goal – I’m not sure if it was a foul or not but we could have defended a bit better in that first moment, and then it’s a good pass and a good finish. “Then it is all about the reaction. Our players responded well. We created massive chances that were difficult to miss, but we did, and the goalkeeper saved some and we hit the crossbar. “How (we didn’t score) I have no clue but at half-time it was clear we were going to make sure we didn’t get frustrated. We were not really chasing the game but playing the game and that’s what the boys did. It was a top performance.” It was only a second defeat of the season for Leicester as they chase an instant return to the top flight and Enzo Maresca said the performance was more important than the result. “I’m very, very proud of the players because to come to this stadium against this opponent and to continue playing in the way we want to play I think they showed they were very brave,” he said. “Even after 45 minutes when we were 1-0 up I was not focused on the result, it’s always important of course, but I told them before the game the focus for us is to go there and continue to play in the way we want.” Read More Stunning Dominik Szoboszlai strike helps Liverpool hit back to beat Leicester Harvey Elliott hails team spirit after Liverpool’s new look midfield impresses Dominic Solanke ankle injury leaves Bournemouth facing anxious wait Dominic Solanke ankle injury leaves Bournemouth facing anxious wait Gareth Bale part of Welsh delegation to help UK and Ireland Euro 2028 bid Football rumours: Real Madrid, Chelsea and Saudi clubs eye Victor Osimhen swoop

Gareth Bale will boost the bid from the UK and Ireland to host Euro 2028 by joining the Welsh delegation in Geneva next month. Bale, the Wales men’s team’s most capped player and record goalscorer, retired from football in January after an illustrious career that saw him win five Champions League titles and three FIFA Club World Cups at Real Madrid. The 34-year-old has now offered a helping hand for Wales to become a Euro 2028 co-host alongside England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Republic of Ireland. Turkey are also in the running to stage the tournament, with the final decision to be made in Geneva on October 10 when Bale will be present. Football Association of Wales chief executive Noel Mooney said: “We are hoping for a successful bid and Gareth is very much part of the FAW and what we do. He has been identified as one of the faces of the bid presentation. “Gareth is globally famous. You can get into a taxi in Sydney or Peru and if you mention you are from Wales they will say ‘Gareth Bale’. It is an instant reaction. “When I go home to the west of Ireland the first thing people say to me is ‘how is Gareth Bale?’ “Gareth is so good for us. We went to him and asked him if he would get involved in the Euro ’28 bid and he just said: ‘What can I do for Wales?’ “It was instant – ‘how can I help you get the bid over the line?'” Ten stadia across the five nations would host matches if the Euro 2028 bid is successful – Wembley, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the Etihad Stadium, Everton’s new Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium, Villa Park and St James’ Park being the venues in England. A redeveloped Casement Park in Belfast, the Dublin Arena in the Republic, Hampden Park in Scotland and the Principality Stadium in Wales – the 74,500-capacity home of Welsh rugby – would also stage matches. The Principality Stadium would be referred to as the Cardiff National Stadium during the tournament due to UEFA rules over sponsorship. Wales hope to stage as many as six matches if the bid is successful, with Mooney having said last October that Cardiff could be in line to stage the opening game of the tournament. Mooney said: “Six games for Wales has been mentioned before, but it is ultimately up to UEFA to decide on the division of games, qualification from the five host nations and things like that. “We’re lucky in that we have a fantastic stadium to offer in a magnificent city. Cardiff hosted a very successful Champions League final in 2017 and UEFA were very happy with it. “But we feel we can get more out of hosting a series of games than from a stand alone match. “There were tens of thousands of Spanish and Italian fans in Cardiff for Real Madrid against Juventus, and they all had a great time. But they were gone the next day. “What the 2016 Euros did for France as a brand, and 2024 will do for Germany, was fantastic. “The Covid-hit Euros weren’t the same and the World Cup in Qatar was a different experience.” Mooney is confident that work on upgrading the Principality Stadium to meet UEFA standards will be completed should the bid from the UK and Ireland prove successful. He said: “Cardiff Council and the Welsh Government are backing the bid and are happy with the projected return on investment. “Millions of pounds will need to be spent on the Principality Stadium to get it up to scratch. It needs new floodlights and a scoreboard. “There are also issues over hospitality numbers and the TV compound. But these are all things that will be resolved.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Eddie Howe ends his Pep Guardiola hoodoo as Newcastle knock out Man City Jurgen Klopp hails Dominik Szoboszlai after bright start to Liverpool career Sean Dyche knows process to revive Everton will take time after another win

Eddie Howe was delighted to finally get the better of Pep Guardiola as he steered Newcastle past Manchester City into the Carabao Cup fourth round. Last season’s beaten finalists triumphed 1-0 at St James’ Park, and then saw themselves drawn against City’s derby rivals Manchester United – their conquerors at Wembley in February – at Old Trafford. For Magpies head coach Howe, it was a first win in 14 attempts against Guardiola as a manager, but that was not his main cause for celebration. Howe said: “Yes, my record against him isn’t good, so it’s nice to win, but most importantly it’s not about that it’s about trying to progress in the competition and I’m delighted with the players, delighted with the efforts that they gave. “It was a very difficult game for us in that first half, I thought they played very well. I thought we defended very well – we had to because we struggled, didn’t have much rhythm. “But then the second half was a totally different performance. The balance of of the team was much better and I’m delighted with everyone’s commitment to the game.” While Howe chose to rest 10 of the men who started Sunday’s 8-0 Premier League demolition of Sheffield United, opposite number Pep Guardiola made eight changes, although it was the way in which they used their respective benches which ultimately proved decisive. The Spaniard kept star striker Erling Haaland in reserve and asked substitute Phil Foden to try to rescue the tie for him, while his opposite number changed the pattern of the game by sending on Bruno Guimaraes and Anthony Gordon at the break and reaped the rewards. Newcastle have already lost to City and Liverpool in the league this season, so victory over one of the big boys was all the more welcome. Howe said: “The only way you go into these games with more belief is by winning, so hopefully that will serve us well for the future. It shows that we are capable. “Yes, both teams made changes, but all you can do is try to win the game and we did, and I’m delighted with the players.” You think the target was to win the quadruple? Honestly, it's not Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola The game was settled by Alexander Isak’s 53rd-minute finish at the end of a powerful run by Joelinton, although City were left kicking themselves for not capitalising on their domination before the break and their failure to mount a fresh charge after it. Asked if he was disappointed that his side could no longer win a quadruple to go with the treble they landed last season, a bemused Guardiola said: “You think the target was to win the quadruple? Honestly, it’s not. “We competed really well and we are more than satisfied to win the treble. Our expectations are high, but not high enough to not be satisfied with that.” Guardiola opted not to throw Haaland into the mix as time ran down, and was happy to defend that decision. Asked if he considered sending the frontman on, he said: “No. I thought Kyle (Walker had played) a lot of minutes, Erling a lot of minutes. We have a lot of games ahead of us. “Maybe the last 10-15 minutes, but I decided not to do it.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Jurgen Klopp hails Dominik Szoboszlai after bright start to Liverpool career Sean Dyche knows process to revive Everton will take time after another win Mauricio Pochettino hopes Chelsea can build momentum after ending winless run

Mauricio Pochettino hailed the character and personality of his players after watching Chelsea end a three-game winless run by beating Brighton in the Carabao Cup third round. Home supporters witnessed a victory at Stamford Bridge for just the third time since March as Nicolas Jackson’s goal proved the difference between the sides and set up a fourth-round meeting with Blackburn. Jackson struck five minutes after half-time with a composed finish into the corner from Cole Palmer’s pass, becoming the first Chelsea player to score since Enzo Fernandez netted in the second round against AFC Wimbledon on 30 August. Pochettino has repeatedly claimed in recent weeks that performances have been better than the team’s results, and he was relieved to finally see the tide turn in what he called a deserved win. “Very pleased with the performance again,” he said. “(I am) happy for the victory and (it is) important to go through and build our momentum. I hope to build momentum for the future from today. “Very pleased when the strikers score, it’s important. He needed to feel the net, it was an important game for him. “All the team was really good. If we assess, all the players were in a very good level. “Cole is a very talented player, he was key in this victory. He’s still young, he still needs to settle in the club and the city but we saw today how good he is. “I think they (the players) showed character and personality.” Chelsea’s night was slightly blighted by uncertain first-half performances from former Brighton pair Robert Sanchez and Marc Cucurella. Sanchez in goal endured a particularly torrid night, with poor distribution gifting chances to Joao Pedro and Ansu Fati, while he also repeatedly hit passes into touch. Pochettino would not be drawn into criticism of the two. “The first half sometimes we didn’t provide Robert and Marc good angles to play and have continuity,” he said. “After half-time I think we fixed that and were much better. But in a difficult moment they showed character. It’s never easy to play in these circumstances. Today was a must-win, we needed to win this game. “Sometimes the pressure to win, you can’t be perfect. In the second half we dominated the game and we deserved the victory.” Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi defended his selection, with a number of first-team regulars having been rested following Sunday’s win over Bournemouth. “We played good enough to win the game but to win you have to score,” he said. “We didn’t score in the first half when we had many chances to score. Not difficult chances. We were not able to score, then you keep the game open. “I am sorry, I’m disappointed for the result because I want to compete in four competitions. I think the first XI was enough to win the game. “We have to adapt, we have to improve, The young players have to progress, but quickly, because in football we don’t have time. “I don’t want to make any excuses. It was the right first XI to win the game.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Marco Silva knows Fulham need to start taking their chances Bournemouth facing anxious wait over Dominic Solanke’s ankle injury Billy McKinlay relieved West Ham avoided upset against Lincoln

West Ham assistant manager Billy McKinlay was pleased his much-changed side were able to come through a tough test at Lincoln in the Carabao Cup. The Premier League Hammers, who made 10 changes from their defeat at Liverpool on Sunday, were pushed hard by the League One Imps but battled to a 1-0 win. Only Tomas Soucek remained in the starting XI from the Anfield game and that proved vital as he scored the only goal in the 70th minute. “I thought we deserved the win, it was a tough night but we got through,” McKinlay said. “We caused our own problems a little bit and gave them encouragement. In the second half, it was a bit better and we had some good opportunities to create a bit more. “But we’re delighted to get through. “As the game goes on you’re always wary that one goal might be the one that wins the game, so we had to get it. “All in all we are happy and glad to be in the next round.” On making 10 changes, McKinlay added: “We have got a really strong squad, plenty of players are fighting for the shirt. “At the moment the boys who are playing in the Premier League probably have possession of that but that can change very quickly. “If you’re in the team and playing well you keep the shirt and that’s what we want to see.” Lincoln, who beat Sheffield United in the previous round, were eyeing another upset and things might have been different had Reeco Hackett buried a free header just before half-time. The Imps were not able to recreate a strong first-half performance but still bowed out with their heads held high. Boss Mark Kennedy said: “I thought it was a really good game of football from both teams. “It is fine margins in the end. I was really impressed with West Ham, I’m not going to say the best team lost but we definitely deserved something from the game. “We knew we had to be at our maximum and hope they’re not. “I thought everyone who stepped on to the pitch did themselves proud. “I’m incredibly proud, the players should be very proud of themselves. I thought everyone did themselves justice.”

Chelsea earned respite from their difficult start to the season under Mauricio Pochettino as Nicolas Jackson’s second-half goal gave them a 1-0 win against Brighton in the third round of the Carabao Cup. Roberto De Zerbi’s high-flying visitors dominated possession for much of the game but home fans witnessed their side put on an effective counter-attacking display at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea had gone three games without scoring, but that run ended when Jackson struck early in the second half after being set up by Cole Palmer, planting a composed finish into the corner to ease his personal struggles in front of goal. Pochettino made five changes from the side beaten by Aston Villa on Sunday, with Palmer brought in for his first start. The former Manchester City forward began in an advanced three alongside Mykhailo Mudryk and Ian Maatsen, but was at his most effective when dropping to receive the ball deep, seeking out the critical final-third passes that have eluded Chelsea and meant they have scored just five league goals in six games. Jackson had an early sight of goal, winning the ball on the edge of Brighton’s box and hitting a left-footed drive that deflected over. Robert Sanchez was one of three former Brighton players in the Chelsea line-up and twice in the first period the goalkeeper almost gifted his former side the lead, first passing the ball straight to the feet of Joao Pedro who chipped it inches over the bar, then putting Moises Caicedo under pressure in a central position. He was dispossessed by Carlo Baleba, who rolled the ball to Ansu Fati to fire wide from the best opening of the half. Brighton had enjoyed 66 per cent possession by the half-hour mark, leaving Chelsea to look for openings on the break. The lively Mudryk ran in behind from Caicedo’s defence-splitting pass, only for Tariq Lamptey to slide in with an expertly timed intervention. Minutes later, Mudryk turned provider, latching on to Levi Colwill’s forceful tackle that sent the ball spinning upfield and crossing low to the near post for Palmer to side-foot wide under pressure from Igor Julio. Chelsea had endured their worst start to a season in 45 years but relief looked finally to have arrived five minutes after half-time. Maatsen received the ball centrally and laid it into the feet of Palmer, who had been a lurking first-half threat playing between the lines. He tucked it in cleverly to Jackson, who wrong-footed Bart Verbruggen to guide home his second goal for the club. It was just the third time this season that Pochettino had seen his team take the lead, and they should have gone further in front when Mudryk’s energetic midfield pressing won the ball and set Jackson away, but this time the goalkeeper got the best of their duel after spreading himself well. Home fans thought Jackson had scored the second goal his performance deserved when he slotted home from Palmer’s pass, but the offside flag cut short celebrations. Brighton had late chances to level, first when Pervis Estupinan collected a raking ball and ran it to the byline, but no one had gambled as his cross fizzed across goal. Pedro then thumped a volley over the bar from Axel Disasi’s weak headed clearance but Chelsea held on to finally hand Pochettino room to breathe. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Carlos Vinicius and Alex Iwobi strike in Fulham’s win over Norwich Everton secure back-to-back wins with cup victory at disappointing Aston Villa Dominic Solanke helps fire Bournemouth into next round after beating Stoke

Alexander Isak fired Newcastle into the Carabao Cup fourth round at the expense of Manchester City. The Sweden international struck eight minutes after the break to seal a 1-0 victory for the Magpies – their first over City in any competition in 11 attempts – in front of a crowd of 51,692 at St James Park. Their place in the draw was reward for a dogged display by a team featuring 10 changes to the one which started Sunday’s 8-0 Premier League victory Sheffield United, but one which was particularly hard-earned after they were given the run-around before the break by Pep Guardiola’s under-studies. Guardiola made eight changes, three of them to include Mateo Kovacic, Kalvin Phillips and Jack Grealish, and – while having indicated in advance that the competition was the least of his priorities – saw his side dominate for long periods but ultimately fail to turn the pressure they exerted into goals. With Phillips and Kovacic controlling the midfield battle, the Magpies were absent as an attacking force for much of the first half. By contrast the link between Rico Lewis, Oscar Bobb – making his first senior start – and Sergio Gomez down the City right proved profitable repeatedly. Goalkeeper Nick Pope was called upon for the first time with 18 minutes gone when Bobb turned smartly on Phillips’ ball to feet and raced towards goal before feeding Julian Alvarez, whose low shot was blocked by the keeper’s boot. Paul Dummett had to make a perfectly-timed challenge to deny Grealish a clear run at goal and Sandro Tonali threw himself into the path of Kovacic’s goal-bound strike with Newcastle’s inability to retain the ball causing them all kinds of problems. Alvarez blazed a 28th-minute shot across goal after running on to Bobb’s clever flick from Kovacic’s square ball as the home side chased shadows, although they might have changed the narrative of the first half four minutes before the break. Joelinton’s interception on halfway allowed Isak to feed Jacob Murphy, who surged forward before firing across keeper Stefan Ortega, who blocked with a leg. Eddie Howe made a double change before the restart, replacing Lewis Hall and 17-year-old midfielder Lewis Miley, who was also starting for the first time, with Bruno Guimaraes and Anthony Gordon and the Magpies instantly had a better balance. Tonali saw a 48th-minute shot blocked after he, Murphy and Tino Livramento had combined down the right and Newcastle were ahead five minutes later. Murphy cut inside and found Joelinton, who powered his way into the penalty area before smashing the ball across goal from a tight angle to find the unmarked Isak, who finished with ease at the far post. In an instant, the atmosphere inside St James’ Park changed with the visitors finding themselves under sustained pressure for the first time. Grealish curled a 75th-minute shot into Pope’s arms as City responded, but their efforts were tepid and Guardiola was booked by referee Chris Kavanagh as he vented his frustration on the sideline. His mood did not improve as City’s weak efforts to redeem themselves came to nothing despite Phil Foden’s introduction. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Billy Vunipola ready to resume physical role for England when required Carlos Vinicius and Alex Iwobi strike in Fulham’s win over Norwich Everton secure back-to-back wins with cup victory at disappointing Aston Villa

Caleb Williams remains the favorite to win the Heisman Trophy and repeat for only the second time in college football history. But a challenger has joined him atop the odds board.

Manchester United winger Antony has flown back to the UK to face the police over allegations of abuse and violence against women made against him. Antony has agreed to hand over his phone to Greater Manchester Police (GMP) to aid their investigation into the complaints made by the footballer’s ex-partner Gabriela Cavallin. Cavallin was in a relationship with Antony for two years and submitted allegations of “physical and psychological violence” by the Brazilian star to both GMP and São Paulo police earlier this month. Further assault allegations followed from Rayssa de Freitas and Ingrid Lana, with Lana’s complaints relating to a meeting between the pair in Manchester. Antony has denied all the allegations in an interview on Brazilian TV. The 23-year-old flew back to England on Tuesday from Brazil, where he was voluntarily interviewed by police in June and they have confirmed they don’t need any more information from him. He has now agreed to voluntarily meet with GMP. Earlier this month, Antony agreed to take a “period of absence” from Manchester United on full pay to address the allegations, meaning he would not play or train with the club until further notice. Despite returning to the UK, he will still not be considered for selection At the time, a club statement read: “Manchester United acknowledges the allegations made against Antony. It has been agreed with Antony that he will delay his return until further notice in order to address the allegations. As a club we condemn acts of violence and abuse. We recognise the importance of safeguarding all those involved in this situation, and acknowledge the impact these allegations have on survivors of abuse.” This was accompanied by a statement from Antony himself, stating: “I have agreed with Manchester United to take a period of absence while I address the allegations made against me. “This was a mutual decision to avoid distraction to my teammates and unnecessary controversy for the club. I want to reiterate my innocence of the things I have been accused of, and I will fully cooperate with the police to help them reach the truth. I look forward to returning to play as soon as possible.” Read More Erik ten Hag consulted as Antony put on ‘period of absence’ from Man Utd amid abuse allegations Man Utd winger Antony appears on Brazilian TV to deny assault allegations Clubs send out wrong message playing footballers accused of abuse – Women’s Aid

Shakira charged with tax fraud in Spain, the Phillies clinched the top NL wild card spot, Lou Holtz fired back at Ryan Day and more in the Roundup.

Defending champions Manchester United beat Crystal Palace in their third round clash and a further seven Premier League teams begin their Carabao Cup campaign across this midweek. Manchester City, West Ham, Aston Villa, Arsenal, Newcastle, Brighton, and Liverpool are become involved at this stage after a bye to allow for European competition. In the last round, League One side Lincoln City provided a shock when they beat Premier League opponents Sheffield United 3-2 on penalties. Here’s everything you need to know about the fourth-round draw. When is the fourth round draw? The fourth round draw takes place on the 27 September after the match between Newcastle and Manchester City which will be televised from St James’ Park. The match is due to kick off at 8pm, and the draw will follow after full time, starting between 10-10:10pm. How to watch on TV and online Sky Sports will broadcast both the match before and the draw. The draw will also be live streamed for free on the Sky Sports Football YouTube channel. Emma Saunders will host the draw alongside former Liverpool forward Daniel Sturridge and recently retired England international Izzy Christiansen. When will the fourth round fixtures be played? The fourth round of the Carabao Cup will be played in the week commencing Monday 30 October. When is the Carabao Cup final? The Carabao Cup final is scheduled for 25 February 2024 at Wembley Stadium. Which teams are in the draw and what are their ball numbers? 1. Burnley 2. Exeter City 3. Ipswich Town 4. Manchester United 5. Mansfield Town 6. Middlesbrough 7. Port Vale 8. AFC Bournemouth or Stoke City 9. Aston Villa or Everton 10. Blackburn Rovers or Cardiff City 11. Brentford or Arsenal 12. Chelsea or Brighton & Hove Albion 13. Fulham or Norwich City 14. Lincoln City or West Ham United 15. Liverpool or Leicester City 16. Newcastle United or Manchester City Read More Erik ten Hag’s got a good thing going at Manchester United – Jonny Evans Premier League clubs push government over key question surrounding state ownership in English football Ange Postecoglou has already transformed Tottenham with Arsenal comeback Vincent Kompany excited about Wilson Odobert’s potential after impressive debut Rob Edwards rues Luton’s lack of attacking quality after Carabao Cup exit Casemiro stars as Manchester United ease past Crystal Palace

Demi Stokes believes Manchester City can rise to the challenge as the competition in the Women’s Super League gets ever tougher. City were forced to settle for a disappointing fourth place last season, finishing outside the Champions League berths for the first time since 2014. After winning the title in 2016 and then finishing runners-up in four successive seasons, City have been muscled out of the top positions in recent years. Chelsea have been the dominant force, having won the past four WSL crowns, but first Arsenal and now Manchester United have got their noses in front of City. Yet far from being frustrated, City defender Stokes has welcomed the increased competition as a sign of the growing strength of the women’s game and is convinced her side can match them. “I think if you look at last year, we had some very good performances,” the 31-year-old left-back told the PA news agency. “We were obviously disappointed with how we finished but I think if you look at the team and the depth that we’ve got, we’ve got everything that we need to win and it’s just about being consistent. “Obviously the league is getting harder and harder but that’s what we want. Other teams are improving, but we’re improving. It is going to be tight. “You know that you have to be consistent every week and every game is hard. It’s not just a handful that are going to be hard – each game is hard. “Everyone can take points off everyone. If you don’t turn up on the day, you’ll get punished for it. “But we know what we need to do. We’ve had our conversations and we’re just looking forward to the season starting.” Stokes, a member of England’s successful Euro 2022 squad, was overlooked for this summer’s World Cup campaign. She enjoyed watching the Lionesses run to the final as a fan but has not given up hope of forcing her way back into the international picture. “I had a good summer and I enjoyed watching it,” said Stokes, who signed a new one-year contract at City in June. “The girls did really well and they should be proud. “For me, I got my holidays in and it’s almost been like having a reset button and going again. “I’ve just got to concentrate on City now and then see where that goes. Play minutes – injury free – and we’ll go from there.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Vincent Kompany excited about Wilson Odobert’s potential after impressive debut Changes on and off the pitch as a new era approaches for Women’s Super League Pain of missing Ryder Cup will hit home now with LIV rebels – Rory McIlroy