65. Denise O’Sullivan

O’Sullivan’s importance to North Carolina Courage was once again marked by her being voted the club’s MVP for a second title-winning campaign in a row. O’Sullivan will never earn top marks for goal scoring but her role on the pitch is no less important. A combative presence in the Courage midfield, she is the heartbeat of what makes Paul Riley’s side so successful. Her pass completion rate was close to 85% from over 1,200 attempted passes while making 34 interceptions during the course of the campaign. Unsurprisingly, O’Sullivan has also remained a regular and important part of the Republic of Ireland set up and at just 25, it’s scary to think O’Sullivan may actually only now just be reaching her peak.

Paul Riley, North Carolina Courage manager:

“Denise is a thoroughbred and most important cog in our midfield. She provides the spine, strength and organisational ingredients of our midfield. Fabulous passer of the ball with the ability to influence every player around her. MVP this season again and her work ethic, tenacity and defensive reading of the game is second to none.”

⇐ 66. Lynn Williams

64. Sarah Bouhaddi ⇒