She Kicks a Beat: Tables Turn But Sanderson’s Step Goes On (Lianne Sanderson)

England forward Lianne Sanderson, whose 2015 took in a return to Arsenal, a spell with Portland Thorns and the penalty she won for Fara Williams’ decisive goal against Germany, turns to music. The squad saw Drake in his home city of Toronto during the World Cup and came away inspired, a welcome break from what is essentially a holding camp. Before and after the bronze medal game everyone danced to cheesy pop, which loosened a group still absorbing the Japan defeat; she names Steps and Whigfield, with herself, Jill Scott and Eniola Aluko usually leading. Alex Scott provides the speakers and songs on the team bus. Having played out the year at Apollon Limassol, she has been acquired by the NWSL’s newest franchise, Orlando Pride.