There can’t be many more impactful experiences for young, aspiring pros then spending time with those who have made the grade, and so it proved when the RTC were invited to Carrington by Reds’ goalkeeper coach Ian Willcock to take part in a skills and development session with Mary Earps and Sophie Baggaley.

The girls were put through their paces and were shown the drills and techniques that keep Mary and Sophie at the top of their game, before a Q&A session with Ian. A valuable insight into what it takes to pull on the shirt at the highest level.

“It was a pleasure spending time with the girls today; I loved their energy and passion,” Mary enthused. “I’ve been in their shoes myself so I’m always happy to have the opportunity to work with them and pass on advice if I can. Plus, it’s always exciting to see the next generation of talent coming through!”

Kendall and Bella, two of the players in attendance, spoke to us about what it was like to have the opportunity to learn from the best in the business.

“It was so good to have the chance to see how Mary and Sophie train and how they save the ball,” Kendall said. “I was made up to meet them and I can’t wait to take their tips and use them in our matches and training sessions.” 

“Going to Carrington was incredible,” Bella added. “The set-up was amazing and I loved how there was two former RTC girls – Ella Toone and Katie Zelem - on the Academy building Wall of Fame – it was so inspiring.

“Mary and Sophie were so nice and super helpful; they showed to me how the girls can be just as good as the men!”

At the Regional Talent Club, the aim is to afford the best opportunities possible to aid the development of these young players, and Technical Director Matt Johnson spoke of how there is no better way to do this spending time with the pros.

“For young aspiring female footballers, it’s important that they have positive role models to look up to,” Matt said. “It’s instrumental in enhancing motivation and inspiration, developing career aspirations and goals and seeing that someone like them can be successful with hard work.

“For the young Manchester United goalkeepers, it was a morning they will never forget!”