England striker Ebony Salmon believes that moving to the USA has paid off handsomely. After joining the Houston Dash in 2022, the 22-year-old had a breakout season, scoring nine goals in 12 games, and has been named to the squad list for the previous three England call-ups.
“Any change involves some risk, but it was well worth it. Since the move, I’ve been in the best shape I’ve ever been in, earning me consistent England call-ups and putting me in a stronger position,” Ebony Salmon said about her move to the USA. “Moving was a risk. I didn’t know much about the league, and I didn’t know much about the club [Racing Louisville] I was joining, but it seemed like the best option at the time. It was clearly a risk, but it paid off handsomely.”
Salmon departed Bristol City to join Racing Louisville in 2021, much to the chagrin of a number of WSL clubs looking to recruit one of England’s most promising young players. Salmon began her career brightly in Kentucky, but she lost her starting spot and was later traded to the Houston Dash, where her form has seen her become one of the most vicious attackers in the NWSL. After Ellen White’s retirement, England’s No. 9 shirt is up for grabs, with Alessia Russo and Rachel Daly starting the last two matches. Salmon concedes that the competition to make the World Cup roster is strong, as seen by Sarina Wiegman’s decision to leave out the in-form Bethany England from her Arnold Clark Cup squad.
The World Cup preparations have been hampered by suggestions that Saudi Arabia’s tourist department may sponsor the event. Alex Morgan, a striker for the United States, has dubbed the situation “bizarre,” citing the country’s record on human rights. Salmon agrees that they must have faith that the sport’s officials will act responsibly.
“Inevitably, it’s something that’s considered, but it’s out of our hands as players,” she added. “Even if it’s a major issue that impacts many people, you don’t want to spend too much time thinking about it and obsessing about it. We must concentrate on the football aspect while trusting those who are concentrating on the other.”
For more football news, click here
