Riva Casley has been named Vice Captain of Oxford United Women
The centre-back, who has played a vital part in Oxford’s exceptional defensive performances this season, was voted by her fellow teammates to take the role.
“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do as a kid” she said. “In a leadership scenario, a centre-half tends to be the one that you look at. Every player I’ve looked up to Steph Houghton, John Terry, Thiago Silva for example, have all been captains.
“Coming through the academy here, I captained the Under 17’s for two years and I’ve always wanted to bring it up to the senior levels, but I was shocked when I heard. To know that my teammates have voted for me makes it that little bit more special, it was a massive, massive thing for me. I was a bit taken aback because there are some experienced players in the team and to know I have their vote of confidence is huge for me.”
Riva spoke about how important Lauren Haynes was as a captain, and how she’ll look to learn from her.
“I’ve played with Lozz for years and she’s a fantastic role model on and off the pitch, she’s a leader no matter where you look. To be her number two is amazing; she saw me when I was just 17 so to step out next to her is really, really nice.”