Steph Houghton - a legend of the Sky Blues

Steph Houghton has announced her retirement from Women's Football at the end of the season, leaving Manchester City as nothing short of a club legend.

241 caps and 22 goals later, the defender has had quite an extraordinary time at City, also becoming the club's all-time appearance holder.

Houghton has significantly contributed to Manchester City and England's Lionesses, being a staple name to both squads.

City's captain will hope to end her final season in glory, with the Women's Super League finding its way to Manchester before she officially retires.

Whatever happens this season, Steph's legacy will be labelled as one many will aspire to when joining the Sky Blues.

After the news was announced, Steph spoke about her decision and also her stellar 22-year career,
"I actually really love the game, and that's all I've known. If you know who I am as a person, my whole life revolves around football. Especially here in Manchester. I met my husband here, and I've given absolutely everything I can. But, from a mental point of view, I am looking forward to a new challenge, and I'm a little tired now."

"I just needed to come out and say it. Now is the right time. I'm ready to learn something new, whatever that might be. There are other things I want to be doing, spending more time with my family as well."

She later talked about her teammates: " That probably makes me a little bit sad because this group of girls is special. I think we've worked hard to form this squad, we've tried to add stability, and we have some great players for me."

"They're not just my teammates; they're my mates as well. They are special, and it would be perfect if we could do something special at the end of the season."

"I've got all the hope, and they have all my support to be able to do something special."

Houghton then reflected on her aim to be a part of the change in Women's football, "I've been fortunate enough to see where the game's gone. My legacy is to know I've left it in a better place, and I've challenged and put up a fight as a woman, not just a footballer, but as a woman to be given the same opportunity to kind of have every opportunity that every male player gets."

"If I know I've left this game in a better place, then I know I've done half of my job. As a player, know that no matter what, if you commit, dedicate, and do the extras, you can do something special. No matter what, we go for it, and we go for it 100%."