Keira Walsh assumes central stage as Barcelona conquer Europe again

K eira Walsh gets caught up in a conga line going past the waiting press, trophy at the front, singing loud. She eventually hauls herself back in order to speak to the journalists, waiting patiently as they finish another interview.

“Keira is an amazing player,” shouts Caroline Graham Hansen over the noise and Walsh grins in response, sunglasses on, flag slung round her shoulders, gold Champions League medal around her neck following victory over Wolfsburg in Eindhoven on Saturday. “Keira brings the vibes and happiness to the team.”

It was not the first time Graham Hansen had praised Walsh, who swapped Manchester City for Barcelona last summer with a first Champions League win set firmly in her sights. “She’s a fantastic player and we’re very lucky to have her,” the winger said in Friday’s pre-match press conference. “She has very good vision for the game. She has adapted well. It’s not easy to come to Barça and play as a No 6. She’s taken that with ease.”

“Her passing of the game, understanding of the game, where she can win the ball for us and make us keep attacking, it’s been amazing,” added Graham Hansen. “Also, as a person in the locker room she’s been fantastic to have, a very good person that gives a lot to the football team outside of the pitch which is very important to create a good team vibe, to work for each other.”

Walsh was crucial as Barcelona came from two goals down at the Philips Stadion to win 3-2 and land a second European title. “I think today Keira could have easily got player of the match, but you probably have to score to get one of those,” said her Barça and England teammate Lucy Bronze. “Our midfield players are unbelievable and the fact that Keira has been able to come in and command a