Birmingham City FC Women: Layla Banaras becomes first player of South Asian heritage to play for club
This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement.
and live on Freeview channel 276
Layla Banaras has made history for Birmingham City Women’s FC by becoming the first player of South Asian heritage to play for the club. Banaras came off the bench in Sunday’s Vitality Women’s FA Cup match at St Andrew’s.
Banaras, who has been at the club since the age of eight, was a 78th minute substitute in the 4-0 win against Huddersfield Town. She first made the bench for Blues Women’s WSL match at Bristol City in November.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdAn own goal was followed by goals from Lucy Quinn, Jamie Finn and Jade Pennock. It was coach Darren Carter’s biggest home win since taking over as boss.
Carter praised Banaras’ work rate. He said that the debut was “deserved”.
Carter said: "I said to her before she went on that she has earned the chance. Ever since she stepped up and trained with us day-in and day-out, you have seen that she has got stronger and more confident, and she deserved that today."
She has been a regular for the WSL Academy side this season, having stepped up from the Under-16s at the start of the season. To get your tickets to see Banaras and her Birmingham Women FC teammates inaction, visit the Birmingham City FC website for ticket information.
Comment Guidelines
National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.