Fran Kirby eyes another trophy on her latest visit to Wembley

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The midfielder was named Player of the Year and is eyeing more success in the FA Cup final.

Nick Szczepanik

2026-05-21T06:00+01:00

Fran Kirby will bring plenty of Wembley experience when Albion take on Manchester City.

Fran Kirby retained the title of Albion’s Women’s Player of the Season at the Players’ Awards but believes that quite a few teammates also had strong claims on the trophy after a memorable season that will end in the FA Cup Final at Wembley.

“I think there's been so many players who've stepped up in really big moments and some players who've been really consistent in their performance over this year,” she said.

“Maybe they don't get the rewards that they deserve. I think there could have been a few players up there receiving this award, but I'm really grateful and feel humble to have won it.”

While Maisie Symonds has worn the captain’s armband, Fran has been one of the players that her teammates have looked to for inspiration and know-how – she will be going for her sixth FA Cup winner’s medal when Albion take on Manchester City on 31 May.

Fran Kirby with her player of the year trophy. 📷Paul Hazlewood

“I take the leadership role really importantly,” the former Chelsea and England player said. “And I think Maisie has done an incredible job as captain this year. Obviously being a young player, stepping into that role, it's never easy.

“And I think having players like me, Jelena [Cakcovic], Marisa [Olislagers] around her, we’ve been able to kind of support her in their moments. But she's done an amazing job and I'm just happy that I'm able to contribute in any way, shape or form. If my leadership helps in that way, then I'm happy to give it.

“When I was at Chelsea, I had so many incredible leaders around me, so many players who were captain of their national teams. Coming to Brighton has probably just brought out a different personality in me and a different challenge, which I was really excited about.”

Albion can take confidence from having beaten City in their most recent meeting, but no more than that, Fran says. “We have confidence, but the FA Cup is one game. It's just one game.

“Form doesn't matter. What you've done this season doesn't matter. How you've played individually or as a team doesn't matter. It's a one-day occasion. And we're going to go there and we're going to give absolutely everything we can to win that trophy.”