‘I want to be playing football’ - Lionesses star Ellie Roebuck opens up on ‘really tough’ time after latest England snub as goalkeeper reflects on losing Man City starting spot this season

Roebuck has not featured for City since May, when she was sent off against Manchester United in a WSL clash. City boss Gareth Taylor has since instilled 19-year-old Khiara Keating as his number one, with Roebuck's lack of minutes costing her a place in the Lionesses' squad in November.

The reasons behind Roebuck's relegation to the bench at City are unclear, and at times this season she has been absent from the matchday squad despite being fit. After committing the 24-year-old from her England squad last month, Sarina Wiegman said the goalkeeper needs to try and "find opportunities."

Speaking to Sky Sports about her situation, Roebuck said: "I make no bones about it, it's been a pretty tough few months of the season. I'm just head down, working as hard as I can, and I'll continue to support the team. Working hard is all I can control.

"I want to be playing football, that's what I do, it's my job, my love, my passion."

When asked if her desire to return to the England squad will impact any decisions on her future, Roebuck said: "Definitely, that's a huge priority for me. It's the greatest honour to play for the national team, it was really tough for me not to make the last camp. I'd be lying if I said it wasn't on my mind."

Roebuck looks unlikely to win back her starting spot at City any time soon, but there have been no concrete reports linking her with a move away from the club in January. She'll continue to try and impress Taylor on the training pitch while City fight in the WSL and WSL Cup.