- Man Utd win Women’s FA Cup
- Manager Skinner booed by fans
- Chelsea boss Hayes defends him
WHAT HAPPENED?
United won their first FA Cup title at the weekend with a 4-0 thrashing of Tottenham at Wembley but manager Skinner was reportedly booed by some supporters, despite their triumph. Now Blues boss Hayes has come to the aid of the Red Devils manager ahead of their crucial Women’s Super League clash on Saturday.
WHAT EMMA HAYES SAID
She said in her pre-match press conference: “They’re deserving of winning the FA Cup, I’m really happy for Marc. I think he’s demonstrated that he’s learned with each year what you need to do to win trophies. I think his fanbase are really tough on him. He’s brought a first piece of silverware to that club and he got booed. Managers deserve more than that. They won’t want to watch someone winning a title on their patch and demonstrate how is this just the beginning for them.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Skinner has been heavily criticised by some United fans for the club’s underwhelming WSL performances this season. Last season, they were within a victory of lifting the title but this term they are 17 points behind league leaders Chelsea in fifth. There is plenty on the line for this end of season clash as a win for the Blues could secure them a fourth-straight WSL title in Hayes’ last campaign in charge before taking over as USWNT boss.
.jpg?resize=640%2C360&ssl=1)
WHAT NEXT?
On Friday, United announced that Skinner had signed a new one-year deal with the club, with an option to extend an extra 12 months. The 41-year-old, who took up the role in 2021, told United’s website: “It’s an honour to extend my stay at Manchester United. I’ve always felt at home here, with our excellent players, staff, and fans.”
