Women’s Nations League: ‘Our demands and standards are higher’ – NI’s Rachel Furness

After leaving Liverpool, Furness joined Bristol City in January and helped the Robins to promotion to the Women’s Super League.

She admits she thought she would have had more of a squad role to play for City in the top flight, but she has been a key player so far, starting and scoring in their narrow 2-1 defeat by Arsenal on Sunday.

“It was a fantastic feeling to get my first league goal this season in front of a record crowd [of 12,088],” she said on Monday morning after an early flight to Belfast.

“It was just unfortunate we couldn’t get over the line and get a result, but it was a very proud moment.

“I stayed at Bristol because I wanted to help both on and off the pitch. I could have dropped down the leagues – I’m realistic. I’m 35 and competing in the WSL every week is difficult at my age.

“It’s a challenge but I go in every day and try to lift those around me. We have a fantastic squad of young and inexperienced players, but I’m just trying to lead them as best I can but I’m thriving off it.

“I’m so happy going in every day, on and off the pitch. I’m in a good place mentally and physically and I think that brings the best out of me.

“I’m confident, I’m fit and ready and I’m overjoyed to be here right now. However I’m needed this next week for Northern Ireland, I’m ready.”