Manchester United Women to return to Old Trafford for Aston Villa fixture

Manchester United Women will return to Old Trafford when they face Aston Villa towards the end of 2022.

With United's men's team out of action throughout November and December due to the World Cup in Qatar, that has provided an opportunity for the Women's side to leave their usual home turf of Leigh Sports Village and play at the Theatre of Dreams. The Women's Super League fixture against Villa is currently scheduled for December 4, though the date and kick-off time is subject to broadcast selection changes.

It will be the first time that United Women take to the Old Trafford pitch since England were triumphant in the European Championship this summer. Lionesses heroes Ella Toone, Alessia Russo, Mary Earps and new signing Nikita Parris could all play in the game.

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The match will be the third time United Women have played at Old Trafford. The first was unfortunately held behind closed doors amid the pandemic against West Ham but the second saw the biggest attendance of the season earlier this year when Everton visited Manchester. Old Trafford hosted the first match of this summer's Euros as England beat Austria.

United manager Marc Skinner said: “We cannot wait to perform in front of our amazing fans, as we once again grace the hallowed Old Trafford turf. As a club we are dedicated to playing our part in the continued growth of the women’s game and a packed Old Trafford will be another great milestone for this fantastic football club - and a wonderful occasion for us all to share.

Football director John Murtough added: “This will be a fantastic occasion for the players, fans and football club. As we build on the success of the Everton