Khadija Shaw’s hat-trick heroics for Man City ‘like watching a video game’

Shaw’s speedy hat-trick beat the previous record set by ex-Arsenal striker Kelly Smith in 2014 when she scored three goals in 16 minutes against Bristol Academy.

Remarkably, it was Shaw’s fourth successive hat-trick against Tottenham in the WSL at Joie Stadium.

It took her tally to 18 goals in 18 WSL matches this season and 16 goal involvements (15 goals, one assist) against Tottenham during her five-year spell in England.

Her exploits are likely to take her to a third successive WSL Golden Boot at the end of the campaign and she will surely be in the running for Player of the Year.

“It was a good afternoon, I must say. Especially off the back of the [0-0 draw with Aston Villa] last week,” said Shaw. “I have amazing players around me and I just try to do the best I can at the top end of the pitch.”

While her goalscoring hits the headlines, it is Shaw’s work-rate off the ball that really caught Coffey’s attention.

“I feel like what you see, is what you get. She is so electric, she’s so good and she’s so dominant,” added Coffey.

“I loved her defensive efforts [against Tottenham]. When she is pressing, I think she is one of the best pressing number nines in the world.

“She’s been such a joy to play with. I’ve obviously respected her for years but now getting to know her and be her team-mate is a privilege.”

For any opponent, facing Shaw is one of the biggest challenges in football.

Tottenham boss Martin Ho conceded his side could do little to stop her, other than try to prevent the ball reaching her.

Does she incite fear in opposing players?

“I wouldn’t say it’s fear but it’s definitely doubt,” said Ho. “She is the best forward in the world by a mile.

“She scores with her feet, with her head, has good link-up play and good movement.

“There were times in the first half where we could have got closer or stopped crosses and when you don’t do that, you get punished.”