Poppy Pattinson is hoping to take her game to the next level as she gets to work under Hope Powell.
The defender joined Albion last month from Everton and wants to help the club achieve its ambitions of becoming a top four WSL club.
“I feel like the club has big ambitions. When I spoke to Hope it just felt right, I think she’s a manager that can help bring out the best in me, she’s someone who demands a lot and working under her I think I can achieve my personal goals, as well as getting wins for the team.
“She knows how football works and listening to her tactical information has already helped me a lot.
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“She’s told me how she wants me to fit into this team. I have only been here for a few weeks, but I already feel like I am learning and it’s about putting that into games now.”
The 22-year-old is aiming to be Albion’s first choice left-back this season.
“The opportunity to be first choice is a big attraction, I want to play and get that consistency, that’s a big part of the game, I feel that if I get that then I can thrive.
“I want to bring that defensive stability. I am a tenacious player, I can put a tackle in, but I can attack, I want to show my qualities getting up the pitch and putting some crosses into the box for my teammates to get on the end of.”
Poppy is also excited to play in front of Albion’s supporters this campaign, with a record number of season ticket holders already signed up.
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“It’s amazing to hear that we’re going to have so many supporters at every game. They can be our 12th player, I am excited to play in front of the Brighton fans and meet everyone.
“It’s been so inspiring to see England’s success at the Euros, not just the crowds at the games, but the TV audiences have been crazy. Women’s football is only going in the right direction, but we’ve taken some huge steps in the last couple of weeks. The WSL will really benefit from it.
“Women’s football has kicked on massively since I made my debut. I was at Sunderland at an early age – Trev [Victoria Williams] was actually there at the time. But seeing how it was then and the growth of it, even signing a professional contract at 18 was huge. Now it’s a whole new level and everyone wants to be in the league so it’s an exciting time.”
Season tickets for the 2022/23 WSL campaign are now on sale. To buy yours click here.