Susan Shalabi

The idea that sport and politics do not mix is ridiculous. It’s like a child repeating, I am not afraid, I am not afraid, I am not afraid. If you keep repeating something, it’s not because you believe it but because you want to convince yourself it is true.”

So they say they've approved 95% of the permits. Let's be more optimistic and assume that they approve 99%. What's the point if the 1% includes the head coach, captain or goalkeeper of the national team? Or those of a visiting team? Will any association accept to play without all or any of these? It's about the principle, not statistics. Footballers should not be denied to move at all.

The worst [about women's football] is never said officially. It is whispered. You hear it as a joke. Women should not play football at all, it is too masculine for their bodies is number one on the list. I usually chop back with that if it is masculinity you want, then go play American football. Leave [soccer] football to the women.

Women should be integrated in all parts of football based on merit and capability. For that to happen, women need to think of themselves as players, coaches, administrators rather than women players, women coaches and women administrators. You need to be a team player and not a minority satisfied with your quota.”