Manchester United Women captain Katie Zelem says that her team's third match at Old Trafford – and second in front of fans – is a brilliant way to showcase the quality of women's football.
The Reds host Aston Villa in the WSL this Saturday at 12:30 GMT, looking to maintain the team's positive start to the season and follow up the stunning 3-2 away win over Arsenal last time out.
Zelem has appeared in both of United Women’s fixtures at Old Trafford to date, and can’t wait to play at the iconic stadium again.
“First of all, being from Manchester and supporting Manchester United, it’s amazing to play at Old Trafford,”
said Zelem, at the pre-match press conference on Tuesday afternoon.
“I think it’s one of the best stadiums in world football, so we are all excited for that.
“There’s no bigger advertisement for women’s football than to be playing at a huge stadium with a great atmosphere.
“It’s not my job to be convincing anyone to come, [but] I think our past results and our form is what people should want to come and watch.
“Especially after the Arsenal game, we showed what we’re all about and the performances we can put on. I’m hoping to see as many fans there as possible.”
The midfielder scored a penalty the last time Marc Skinner’s side played at Old Trafford, as the Reds overcame Everton 3-1 in the WSL back in March.
It is a moment which Manchester-born Zelem describes as a “dream come true,” and she’s grateful to have the opportunity to represent her childhood club.
“Before it happened, it was something I never could have dreamed of,
“ said Katie, referring to her goal.
“But walking out with the girls at Old Trafford and managing to score there was a dream come true.
“To me, sitting here [as a United player] is every Manchester United fan’s dream and playing at Old Trafford is the same.”