Aston Villa star sends message of solidarity to victims of ‘disgusting’ abuse

Last year, the sacking of North Carolina Courage head coach Paul Riley due to abuse allegations led to the launching of an independent inquiry led by former deputy attorney general Sally Yates.

Following consultation with more than 200 NWSL players, the Yates report was published this week and, over 172 pages, details the verbal, emotional and sexual abuse which has become “systemic” in the division.

In response, the NWSL has commended the courage of those who came forward to share their stories and promised to review the report’s findings immediately.

Daly, who joined Villa this summer after six years at NWSL side Houston Dash, was in training with Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses when she heard news of the report’s findings.

“I was saddened to see it,” Daly told Sky Sports.

“Coming off the training pitch yesterday to that news, it’s heartbreaking, it’s sickening.

“It’s absolutely terrifying that girls are going through this and that people are abusing power.

“All I can do and say is that the rest of the women’s football community stands in solidarity with the girls that have been affected.

“My heart is with them and I hope that finally these things can be put to an end.”

The Yates report called upon the institutions which failed the abuse victims to bring about reforms which players deserve.

Daly has praised former team-mates and opponents for their contribution to the investigation.

“I think for me, personally, I’m very proud of [the victims] to openly come out and have a safe space to speak about these things,” Daly said.

“They should never have to speak about these things because they should never go through these things - it’s disgusting.

“But I think the NWSL Players’ Association have done a fantastic job there, a brilliant group of women and players and behind the scenes work tirelessly to make a safe space for everyone to speak about things, so they’ve done a fantastic job in allowing that platform for people to openly speak.”