Team Canada are the Olympic gold medal Champions and one of the favourites for the forthcoming Women’s World Cup next year, so for a Celtic player to get a call-up to such a top squad is pretty remarkable really. And if you have watched Clarissa Larisey play you’ll probably agree that it’s actually no more than the striker deserves.
“It was unexpected,” Clarissa told Celtic TV. “I was so happy and honoured when she called, I couldn’t believe it. I keep saying it’s like a dream come true because it truly is – I’ve dreamt my whole life to play for Team Canada.
“Just getting the call was unreal and words can’t describe how grateful and honoured I am. Of course my family are as happy as me because they’ve seen me put in all the hard work all these years.”
On the Olympic Gold Medalists and one of the best women team’s in world football, Larisey had this to say about Team Canada. “They’re all very athletic and well-rounded as players, so I’m very excited to see them in person and play with them.”
With Charlie Wellings leading the line at Celtic last season – and scoring 40 goals in the process – the Canadian forward has no worries about taking on the challenge of following in the footsteps of such a successful goalscorer this season. Indeed Larisey is relishing the chance to lead the line at Celtic as number 9 is actually her favoured position.
“I feel at my most comfortable playing upfront and with the girls we all understand each other and have good chemistry so I enjoy that role.
“Here at Celtic, being able to play and show myself well is what Canada saw in me.
“I think I’m just enjoying the moment and taking everything day by day and not looking too far ahead, because I’m trying to focus on the now.”
Larisey spoke to Collete Carr at Celtic TV after being called up for the Canada squad heading to Australia for a two-match series against the Matildas in September. But before that Larisey will be looking to add to her 5 goals from 3 SWPL1 games this season when the team travel back to K-Park in East Kilbride to take on home side Motherwell. Kick-off is at 4pm, you can pay at the gate, so of you are currently watching Dundee v Utd v Celtic on Sky Sports why not head along to K-Park and give the Ghirls some additional support this afternoon?
🐝Matchday!🐝
🏆 SWPL
🆚 Motherwell
🏟 K-Park Training Academy
🕓 4pm
🎟 PATG adults £8, kids go free
📲 Updates on @celticfcwomen
#MOTCEL | #SWPL | #COYGIG pic.twitter.com/6dezzOwrdt— Celtic FC Women (@CelticFCWomen) August 28, 2022
🔙We're heading to East Kilbride this afternoon, but for the first time ever as visitors 🏟
What were your favourite K-Park moments, Celts?⏪🤔#MOTCEL | #SWPL | #COYGIG pic.twitter.com/FBjzdHkdCB
— Celtic FC Women (@CelticFCWomen) August 28, 2022
