Park: Togetherness pushing us on | OneFootball

Jess Park says the incredible bond between the City players is the driving force behind this season’s Super League title push.

The Blues are neck and neck with Chelsea with five games remaining and the very real possibility of goal difference deciding the eventual champions.

But Park, speaking in the latest Official Man City Podcast (released at 18:00 (UK) today), believes the camaraderie among Gareth Taylor’s squad could be key on the run-in.

“We've found another level of togetherness - on and off the pitch - and it really, really helps,” said Park.

“We’re really excited and I can't wait for every single game to come.

“Everybody knows the run-in will be tough, but we're excited for the challenge and we’re like, ‘come on, what can we do to get over the line?'

“We have massive games coming up and in previous seasons in vital games, we've not been able to get the goal we needed, or we've conceded – but, as with our win away to Chelsea, it seemed like the luck was more on our side- but we have worked hard for that.

“As long as we stick together and stay focused, there's so much more to come from us as a team.”

Park has stepped up in the absence of Jill Roord with a series of sparkling performances.

The 22-year-old was the player of the match as she bagged two goals in last weekend’s 3-1 win over United at the Etihad – and she is relishing the chance to stake her claim in Taylor’s title-chasing team.

“I just wanted that chance and get that opportunity to play in midfield, so I was like, 'ok, let’s do this',” says Park.

“I feel a lot more comfortable in the middle - winning the ball, making interceptions, and creating chances - I enjoy being under pressure and having to make quick decisions.

“It's always nice to contribute with goals and assists, but I also enjoy the hard work, such as when we won at Chelsea and had to dig in to get over the line.”

And Park says having Yui Hasegawa behind her is a joy, adding: “She's so clever - she's so on it and always seems to be one step ahead of everyone.

“She's physically small, but she can handle everything – and I know if I make a move, she'll find me.

“I also feel that if I do overstep, she's always got my back, too.”

The Rotherham-born Park spent the 2022/23 season on loan with Everton before returning to City.

Though it wasn’t an easy choice for her, she admits it was the ideal move at the time and has been hugely beneficial to her game.

“It was a big decision because I love being here, but I had to get that experience and match scenarios under my belt- I really need to push on with that,” she said.

“There's only so far you can go just by training, so it was the best thing I ever did because Everton were the perfect club for me to spend time with.

OFFICIAL MAN CITY PODCAST

“The girls and staff were incredible, and they really want to progress young English women.

“Gareth and I spoke beforehand and he understood I needed game time to showcase what I could do.

“It all worked out really well.”

Listen and watch ‘In Conversation With Jess Park’ from 18:00 (UK), Thursday 28 March.