‘He always stuck by me’ – Tullis-Joyce credits Skinner in WSL Golden Glove triumph | OneFootball

Manchester United’s Phallon Tullis-Joyce capped a breakout Women’s Super League season by winning the Golden Glove, crediting her success to manager Marc Skinner’s belief in her.

The American had big shoes to fill after Mary Earps left the club for PSG last summer. However, the departure of the England keeper has not harmed United this season.

After serving as backup last campaign, Tullis-Joyce stepped into the starting role between the sticks and has flourished, recording 13 clean sheets, the joint-highest total in the WSL.

Tullis-Joyce said: “It’s been a whirlwind. I love the challenge, shoutout to Marc [Skinner] for always being open and honest with me of my role in the team and always having that faith in me.

“Even when things didn’t go our way he always stuck by me. I’m really grateful to have a manager that is hoping to win something with this football club.

“It’s so amazing to represent my team in this award as well. Defensively, from my defenders, everyone from our attackers down has been incredible this season. It’s a testament to their efforts this whole season.

“Jayde [Riviere], Millie [Turner], Maya [Le Tissier], Gabby [George], everyone. We have a whole star studded cast of defenders that I’m so proud to call my teammates and friends.

“They’re just great people and great chemistry. Love them all the way.”

Off the back of her strong performances in the league, Tullis-Joyce was rewarded with a debut for the US national team.

She also thanked goalkeeper coach Ian Willcock, who is leaving the club at the end of the season.  The shot stopper revealed: “My coach is one the main reasons why I came to Manchester United.

“His dedication is incredible and the growth I’ve had in the last two seasons has been really because of him. An amazing man and I wish him all the luck with the Canada Women’s team.”

United finished third in the WSL, earning Champions League qualification for just the second time in their history.

The American international reflected: “I’m very proud of this season. I’m a bit of a perfectionist so some things I’ll tweak here and there, but I’m all the more excited for next season.

“I think this has been a great one, and I’m proud to share it with my teammates and I’ll be happy for it now.”

The Reds still have the chance to add silverware to their campaign in the FA Cup final this Sunday. Tullis-Joyce shared the Golden Glove with Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton, with the two set to face off at Wembley.

As the current holders, United will be looking to retain their title after beating Tottenham Hotspur last year, while Sonia Bompastor’s Chelsea are hoping to achieve a domestic treble, having already won the WSL and the League Cup.

Ahead of the final, she declared: “I’m really excited to be on the field this time. Excited to feel the energy. This league is incredible and it’ll be a fun exciting challenge.”