Maya Le Tissier says that Manchester United teammate Grace Clinton can shine for both club and country.
The 21-year-old midfielder was on the scoresheet for England as they defeated South Africa 2-1 at The Coventry Building Society Arena in Coventry last night. Clinton’s performance was one of the biggest positives to come from The Lionesses’ victory.
When speaking to the media after the match, defender Le Tissier backed her teammate to continue to shine for both club and country.
“Of course, there’s a lot more that can come from Grace,” Le Tissier said. “She’s a great person. If she keeps her head down, she’ll be a fantastic player for both England and [Manchester] United.”
Le Tissier was the provider for Clinton’s goal last night. She delivered an inch-perfect ball onto the midfielder’s head. Le Tissier was pleased to have played her part in the goal.
She said “Yeah, I thought I’d get Grace on the scoresheet! I had a lot of time to put the cross in, so I was sort of just waiting and lifted it in the air for her to score.
“She’s a great player and took her opportunity tonight. Yes, she’s been fantastic in the start of the season for us at [Manchester] United and long may that continue.”
Le Tissier was fielded at right-back by England head coach Sarina Wiegman before being moved to left-back later in the game. The player is happy to help out wherever she is needed, playing for her country is the most important factor.
She said “I’m prepared to play any position, to be fair. I don’t get as many opportunities, so I think for me to be able to play 90 minutes tonight, I’m very grateful for that. Wherever I am on the pitch, I want to put in my best performance.”
England are next in action in the November international window when they face the United States and Switzerland in back-to-back home friendlies.