Women’s Ballon d’Or: Man City’s Lauren Hemp & Khadija Shaw on ‘dream’ nominations

Shaw finished top scorer in the Women’s Super League last season but Manchester City missed out on the title on goal difference.

She was also named the PFA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year and the FWA Women’s Footballer of the Year.

“She’s such a fox in the box,” said Hemp. “In the seasons I’ve played with her, she’s come out on top and always finishes top goalscorer. She is great to have in the team.”

Shaw said any of her team-mates could have been nominated after a strong year for City, despite not delivering any silverware.

“A lot of players in our team could be on that list,” added the 27-year-old. “The overall effort we put in every day to not just score goals but improve.

“I am hard on Hemp. If she gives me a bad cross, I am going to be on her. If I don't score, she will do the same.

“She is a grafter and she buzzes around the pitch. She is an unbelievable player. I just know when she is out there, I have to be ready.

“I love playing with her. I enjoy it each and every day. The sky is the limit for Hempo.”

Hemp said it usually takes her a “long time” to process her achievements but she has already realised the significance of being nominated for the Ballon d’Or.

“We’re surrounded by amazing players week-in, week-out,” she added. “It pushes us on to be so much better.

“I take a lot of pride in being a grafter, like Shaw says, and giving my all every single time I put on that shirt.

“If everyone is playing well, it makes me feel like I’ve playing well too. It’s a really proud moment.”