'You can be a mum and a footballer - they can co-exist'

What the report says

Northern Ireland striker and captain Simone Magill has spoken to BBC Sport NI about returning to football after becoming a mother, saying her daughter Skye has changed her perspective and given her a new sense of purpose. Magill, who gave birth in May, said football remains important, but motherhood is now her first priority.

The BBC Sport report says Magill is back in Northern Ireland camp ahead of Friday’s World Cup play-off against Portugal, although the first leg has come too soon for her return to match action. She is training again four months after giving birth and has been joined at camp by her husband, Mark, and baby Skye, with the family integrated into daily routines while she focuses on football activities.

Magill described the support from the Irish FA, manager Michael McArdle and her team-mates as crucial, saying it has helped make the process manageable. She also said she wants to show that being a mum and being a footballer are compatible, and that younger players can see family life need not end a playing career. Magill, who is closing in on 100 international caps, hopes to return to matches later in the autumn.

The interview adds context to a wider conversation in women’s sport about maternity support, return-to-play pathways and how teams can adapt to players with young children.