Another Women’s Super League season has come and gone, with fans and pundits enjoying heated debates over who the standout players have been. To settle all arguments (or maybe stoke some more), ESPN’s Sophie Lawson has put together some alternative — and some not-so alternative — awards, as well as a team of the season.
They may not have won the WSL title but, with 37 goals between them, there isn’t much debate about the prowess of Man City’s preferred front three.
Even with Kelly falling out of favour and Shaw picking up a knock at the tail end of the season, City’s attack has been so consistent this season, and when the trio got on the scoresheet, City routinely hammered their opposition.
Breakthrough player of the year award: Jess Park (Man City)
Having impressed on loan at Everton last season, Park has come into her own this term. Although many would have expected to see her in her element out wide, it’s been her form in the No. 10 role, following Jill Roord‘s ACL injury, that has seen the 22-year-old flourish.
Honourable mention: Khiara Keating (Man City).
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Best goal award: Lauren James vs. Brighton & Hove Albion (Jan. 27, 2024)
Best renaissance award: Rachel Williams (Manchester United)
With five goals in the WSL, as well as six across both domestic cups, the 36-year-old Williams has rolled the years back this season to come up with some key goals for Marc Skinner’s side.
A player who’s been there, done it and bought several T-shirts along the way, Williams’ form has been unexpected but very welcome for United.
Honourable mention: Becky Spencer (Tottenham Hotspur)
Utility player award: Sjoeke Nüsken (Chelsea)
Playing as a centre-back, central midfielder and striker this season, Nüsken has done everything that Chelsea have asked her to do on their way to a record fifth successive title.
Although best in the heart of midfield, the Germany international has filled in at the back despite the fact she doesn’t love playing there, and has also scored eight WSL goals as she made a claim to permanently fill Chelsea’s injury-hit No. 9 position. She has moved from one position to the next with ease, regardless of the different skill sets required to execute, and has played a key role for Chelsea this season.
