Aston Villa boss Carla Ward has spoken out on Hannah Hampton’s chances of reclaiming her No.1 spot amid injury troubles and rumoured attitude problems.
The 21-year-old hasn’t started a game for Villa since September 25 when her side beat bottom of the league Leicester City, and she missed out on the latest England squad despite being a part of the European Championship winning squad in the summer.
Prior to the Villans’ loss against Chelsea last month, Hampton was absent from the squad with Ward saying it was because ‘something happened yesterday’ and that it was ‘in the best interests of the team.’
Lioness’ boss Sarina Wiegman refused to comment when previously asked about the goalkeeper’s absence, saying she hadn’t spoken to her in the last two months and said that Hampton still needed to resolve issues that had kept her out of September’s Three Lions squad.
Since then, Hampton has been out with an injury and manager Ward had nothing but praise to heap on her shoulders.
“Hannah’s an exceptional young keeper, as is Leaty [Anna Leat],” exclaimed the Villans’ coach.
“Hannah’s actually only trained for a couple of days this week, so it was probably a bit too soon for her.”
Her recent replacement in between the Villa sticks Anna Leat has taken her chance to impress and has put the first team spot very much up for grabs.
Both are young, ambitious prospects, with Anna Leat being only 21 years old alongside 22-year-old Hampton.
When asked about Leat’s chances of keeping the spot, Ward gave no hint as to who will remain in the long term.
“The fact that you’re asking shows that Leaty’s done really well, and I think that’s an important thing to mention.”
“They’ll push each other now and it’s a real opportunity for them both.”
The Villa gaffer continued to highlight their chances:
“We’ve got two league games and two cup games between now and Christmas so it’s a real opportunity for them both.”
“It’s a really good position to be in; we’ve got two young keepers pushing each other every day.”
Villa face Championship side Durham next in the Continental League Cup and rotation will be expected where possible despite the Midlands side boasting a frustratingly long injury list.
However, Ward has announced that Hampton will finally get back on the pitch in this fixture.
“Hannah will play; I think it’s the perfect chance to get back in and get her a game.”
The young keeper will be keen to restore her place as well as her reputation after a stellar year up until the start of the new season.
Hampton will be wanting to cause more positive headaches for both Ward and Wiegman, reclaiming her club starting place as well as forcing her way back into the Dutch coach’s plans.
