One of the reasons Manchester United Women hired Eva Olid was her trust in youth, and this has so far been rewarded.
Youth
United finished the Players’ Cup against Durham yesterday with six academy graduates on the pitch.
Lucy Newell made her debut, with Mared Griffiths on the score sheet. Jessica Simpson, Jess Anderson and Layla Drury all also played key roles in goals for their side in the 5-1 victory.
It was a proud moment for the academy and exactly what Manchester United Women fans want to see, after it was widely believed that the previous head coach, Marc Skinner, often overlooked this aspect of managing the club.
What United is all about 🧬❤️ pic.twitter.com/5VbjwILriY
— Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) September 30, 2026
International call-ups
Owing to the opportunities the youngsters are getting, it is no surprise that they are now getting their chances on the international scene.
The club’s official website reports, “four young Manchester United Women players have received England call-ups across two age categories.”
Jess Simpson, who scored an incredible ‘olimpico’ goal directly from a corner against Sheffield United last week, has been called up to the England under-23 squad.
They will take on Norway on 12th October in York.
United will also have three representatives in the under-19 squad for England.
The site also explains that, “Evie Mitchell, Lucy Robinson and Jessica Anderson are linking up with England’s Under-19 squad for the international break.”
They will come up against Denmark, Switzerland, and Bosnia & Herzegovina over the course of the week.
The club wishes all four players the best of luck as they take on the responsibility of representing their country.
Feature image Jess Hornby via Getty Images
