The Big Kick Off: Hedvig Lindahl

Sweden goalkeeper Hedvig Lindahl, newly arrived at Chelsea, found pre-season easier than she is used to: accustomed to long, rough Swedish winters, starting at the end of January on turf made it feel shorter. The change of environment made the biggest impact, getting to know people at the club and adjusting to living abroad, and she has enjoyed every session with a goalkeeper coach who challenges her. The hardest part was being away from her wife and young son for almost two months before they could join her. Her aims are to improve Chelsea’s defence, enjoy what life throws at her and make many World Cup appearances for Sweden. She asks for a vehicle, declines the idea of a slave on principle, and names Zlatan Ibrahimovic as her chosen celebrity fan.