It’s been a brilliant 12 months of women’s football in England, particularly in the Women’s Super League.

Chelsea have been the dominant force throughout the year, successfully retaining the Women’s Super League title in May, just a couple of months after winning the Continental Cup.

The Blues have started well this season, and added an FA Cup to their trophy cabinet at the start of the month, but Arsenal are the side currently atop the WSL table.

After taking Chelsea all the way in the WSL title race last season, Manchester City are now floundering due to a severe injury crisis. This has left Tottenham and Manchester United to battle for third place and spot in the Champions League.

Such is the state of play as the WSL heads into the winter break, and as 2021 draws to a close, GiveMeSport Women takes a look at the top 10 players in the WSL over the past 12 months.

10) Ashleigh Neville

Ashleigh Neville has been a key reason for Tottenham Hotspur’s exceptional form this season. Her side currently sit third in the table, in prime position to qualify for next year’s Champions League.

She has been excellent in Tottenham’s defence all year, and is now renowned for her robust tackles.

Indeed, Neville has made the most amount of tackles in the league so far this season – 53. Of these, her tackles has helped her team regain possession an impressive 33 times.

The 28-year-old particularly stood out when Tottenham earned a point against Arsenal in November. Spurs had been just minutes away from clinching their first ever competitive victory over the Gunners, but conceded a last-gasp goal.

If Spurs are to stay in contention for a place in the Champions League, Neville’s performances will be crucial.