Manchester United Women goalkeeper Siobhan Chamberlain has announced that she is expecting her first child in the New Year.
She will remain a part of the squad but taking part in a reduced training programme and exploring off the pitch activities with the club.
Siobhan Chamberlain said that she and her husband Leigh: “Are both filled with so much love and excitement looking ahead to the coming months, as we prepare to become parents. I want to say a huge thank you to Casey [Stoney] and everyone at Manchester United who have been brilliant with me since we received the news.”
“I’m going to use the next few months to work on certain aspects of my game both on and off the pitch. I will be part of the squad in a slightly different capacity but, nonetheless, my focus is on helping my teammates as we prepare for our first season in the WSL. There is also still quite a lot I want to achieve in the game and as a goalkeeper, I still feel I’ve got a number of years left in me at the very top level, so I intend to come back better than before.”
Head coach Casey Stoney said: “It’s fantastic news for Siobhan and we are all so pleased for her and Leigh. Siobhan will be fully supported by the club; she is an important player for us both on and off the pitch and we are committed to offering her a programme that suits her needs. We have a strong squad coming into this season and will be looking to push on this year, and although her name won’t be on the team sheet, her experience and leadership will remain key for us.”
