'Toughest year of my life' - Man Utd & Lionesses star Ella Toone sends emotional message after marking anniversary of dad's death with goal in WSL victory over Leicester

Toone opened the scoring for United in the 13th minute before Elisabeth Terland doubled the team's lead. Melvine Malard then scored a brace in the second half to complete the demolition of Leicester City in their WSL opener. After scoring on her dad's death anniversary, Toone penned an emotional note on social media. 

On Instagram, Toone wrote: "1 year without you, Dad, it’s been the toughest year of my life, but I had comfort in knowing you were always with me. I miss you more than anything, and the feeling of entering another year without you kills me, but I keep going to make you proud. Thank you to everyone who has got me through it all, my family, friends and my teammates. You would have loved that today, & as always, it was all for you. Here’s to another 365 days of thinking, talking and laughing about you and all the memories we made. Cheers, Dad, I love you."

Toone was extremely close to her day and had spoken previously of how she used to watch Manchester United as a child with her dad and the special story he used to tell about how she decided she wanted to play football. Following Nick's passing away, the Red Devils star had shared photographs from her childhood and had penned an emotional farewell note. 

Marc Skinner's side will be back in action this Thursday as they take on Brann in the first leg of their Women's Champions League qualifying round.