‘Not concerned’: Man Utd boss shares contract update on key duo

The Manchester United duo have both been vital in the club’s march to the top of the Women’s Super League but will see their current contracts come to an end this summer.

Despite the success on the pitch, the thought of losing their key duo has left fans understandably concerned as the clocks ticks towards to end of the season - and the expiry of both players’ contracts.

“I wouldn’t say it goes to the level of concern because as a collective we are in a massive moment in the season and these players will play a massive part in it” said Skinner when we asked how concerned he is that no deal has yet been agreed.

“I will reiterate that there’s a lot of love from Alessia and Ona towards the club and the club to those players. We are hopeful and we are working hard behind the scenes. I get why you are asking but we are working and as soon as we have updates we will give them.”

Russo, who is likely to start upfront for England against Australia this evening, has been linked with summer moves to Lyon and was subject of a £500,000 bid from title rivals Arsenal in the January window, while Ona Batlle has been strongly linked with a return to Spain with European giants Barcelona.

However Skinner was clear that the duo remain vital parts of his United side and reiterated that the pair are fully focussed on ensuring the team meet their objectives this season.

“What I will be very clear on and this has always been my message and why they are still performing like they are is it’s about the team. My job is is to put myself to the side for this team, the players job is to put themselves aside and work for the team. Right now, we are continiously working behind the scenes but we are working hard as a collective and as individuals to earn this club some success. That looks like trying to progress to an FA Cup final.

“We have to put all of our energy into that and then focus our energy on not only finishing in the Champions League spots, but also to try and win the league.”