After making a successful comeback from a long-term injury, Lucy Ashworth-Clifford had a happy start to 2024.
The winger has been making progress towards a full return ever since she was included in the matchday squad for the first game of the season against Ayr United.
Ashworth-Clifford made that crucial next step last weekend when, for the first time since sustaining that injury in 2022, she was named in the starting lineup against Partick Thistle.
The 24-year-old played the first 45 minutes, contributing to the Celts’ impressive performance and another successful afternoon for the team as a whole.
Before this weekend’s Scottish Cup match against Montrose, Ashworth-Clifford spoke with Celtic TV on her first start in more than a year and her ongoing journey back to full health.
“It was good to make my first start since injury,” the woman remarked. Being back there with the females was also enjoyable.
The fact that we outperformed Pick Thistle—a formidable opponent—just goes to highlight our performance. Simply put, it felt good to be back!
I’m still getting used to returning to the field, so it was great to log 45 minutes.
It was challenging at times, but I had anticipated being a little more blustery. But I believe I’m making progress at this point.
“I believe I’m gradually but steadily collecting my breath. However, you just need to move forward with it as it is.
The Ghirls will travel to Links Park this weekend to play Montrose in the Scottish Cup quarterfinals, where a spot in the final four of the championship is up for grabs.
Ashworth-Clifford’s first appearance off the bench following an injury was against this same opponent back in January during a 9-0 victory. The celebration when the midfielder was welcomed onto the pitch by her teammates was amazing.
As the two sides get ready to meet again, Ashworth-Clifford is certain that there won’t be a moment like that one, but she is dead focused on getting the same outcome as that day.
She is now looking to contribute to additional success this season by helping secure a spot in the Hampden Park semi-finals after losing out on the Scottish Cup victory of the previous year.
“When I made my return last time against Montrose, it started off pretty funny with the girls doing whatever they did,” she remarked. However, I don’t believe I’ll receive that this time.
“Sunday’s game will be difficult.” We’ll reach Hampden Park if we make it past that. There’s a hefty reward up for grabs, then.
“For the entire team, playing at Hampden last season was a unique experience. It was difficult to observe the girls while they performed their actions.
“However, I was incredibly proud of them, and maybe this time I can join in the celebration when we prevail!”
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