Toone back in 'happy place' after scoring on return from injury

Manchester United returned from the winter break in style with a 7-0 win over West Brom in the Women's FA Cup, but one of the highlights of the evening was Ella Toone's comeback goal.

England international Toone came off the bench to make her first appearance since November after being sidelined with a calf injury.

Her goal was the pick of the bunch at Leigh Sports Village, with her long-range effort going in off the crossbar.

"I think in the first half of the season I had a lot going on and it probably affected me more than I realised when I was out on the pitch," Toone told BBC Radio 5 Live.

"I think that injury was a bit of a blessing in disguise not only to come back stronger but fitter and mentally better as well.

"I definitely used the time well and I've missed playing, I've missed being out on the pitch, I've missed being around the girls. To come back tonight, get my first minutes, get on the scoresheet and just to be involved with a good performance feels nice. Hopefully I can continue growing."

Toone's goal was her first this season and her first since scoring at Wembley in last season's FA Cup final.

It was also her first goal since her dad passed away in September and Toone pointed to the sky when celebrating.

"It meant a lot," she added. "Not just for me but the girls as well. They've been on this journey with me. I think a lot of hard work has gone into getting me back on the pitch and feeling physically better but also mentally better.

"I feel like I'm in a good headspace at the minute. Obviously some days are a lot tougher and that's just grief.

"I'm learning to deal with that but to be back out onto the pitch tonight, it's where I love, it's my happy place."