That the USA selected Ireland as friendly opponents as they prepare to defend their World Cup crown speaks volumes of the growth of Vera Pauw's side, according to Ciara Grant.
THAT THE USA selected Ireland as friendly opponents as they prepare to defend their World Cup crown speaks volumes of the growth of Vera Pauw’s side, according to Ciara Grant.
“Beating Australia in a friendly almost two years ago gave us that inner confidence that we can go on and show the world what we are capable of. It’s being realistic, but also being ambitious in what we can do.”Grant has been an important squad player through the campaign thus far, though minutes have been limited.
“Our midfield is extremely strong, I’m not going to talk around that, we have a lot of players who can play in multiple positions in midfield. But me and her have a clear conversation about what my role is within the team and if I am needed, I will be ready.”Grant has thrived since moving to a full-time professional environment in Scotland. The 29-year-old is vice-captain at Hearts, putting in big displays and scoring regularly.
From there, she dipped her toes back in with Sion Swift in the Northern Irish League, and later joined Shelbourne as she landed a lecturing post in Dublin and targetted an international return.Amidst all of that, Grant recalls watching the European Championship qualifier defeat to Ukraine and pinpoints that as the moment when making a senior World Cup became a realistic ambition.
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