Laura Coombs expresses disappointment over reduced playing time

Manchester City midfielder Laura Coombs, who joined the club from Liverpool in 2019, has stated that players understand they “have to put on a good performance” when selected, given the intense competition within the squad. The 33-year-old has not been part of the starting lineup for any matches this season, even as City currently holds the top position in both the Women’s Super League table and their Women’s Champions League group. Coombs remarked, “We’ve not always had a great start,” adding, “We’re feeling really good at the minute and that’s being reflected in the WSL and other competitions.” Having made appearances from the bench in recent fixtures, Coombs expressed her commitment to bringing the same level of energy to the pitch as a substitute as she would if she were a starter. She further elaborated on the team’s competitive environment, stating: “The competition in the squad is super high. Every week players go out knowing they have to put on a performance. Everyone wants to start. Everyone wants that. But if that’s the role [as a substitute] I have at the minute, I just want to do it to the best of my ability. Of course it’s disappointing not to play [as much] but everyone wants that. There’s only 11 players who can start.”