Manchester United and Norway striker Elisabeth Terland on her FA Cup final at Wembley, the family who shaped her and why Manchester now feels like home.
Ialwayslikedtobelievethatifyouworkedhard,yougetwhatyoudeserveintheend.Thatissomethingthathasstuckwithme.Elisabeth Terland
Elisabeth Terland has made Manchester feel like home since arriving from Norway. Ahead of Sunday’s Manchester derby, the United striker looks back on the moments that shaped her, from late nights watching football with her dad and brother to her FA Cup final at Wembley.
Do you remember your first club, coach or grassroots match?
I remember my first official tournament, but that’s because I’ve seen it on video, I don’t really remember it.
What was the first match you watched live or on TV that made you fall in love with football?
I always used to watch football on TV with my brother and my dad, I can’t remember an exact game. I remember when I was younger, I’d stay up late to watch the football and fall asleep on the couch.
Is there a small moment that wasn’t a goal or winning a trophy that means more to you than people would expect?
There’s not a specific moment that I can remember, but I love when people try their best and you can see that they really want too.
What’s a moment you wish you could go back and experience for the first time?
I mean it’s hard to pick just the one, because there are a lot of big things. But probably the FA Cup final at Wembley, that was a big one.
What was the first foreign country you visited, or do you have an absolute favourite place to go?
I’m from Norway so we usually went to Sweden and the other Scandinavian countries, and I liked that a lot in terms of I’m used to it. But I like to be at home because I don’t live at home anymore, so staying in Norway is something that is nice.
Who is the first person you call when you have big life news?
My family, my mum and dad.
Who influenced your life the most, is there one person who you look and go they have really impacted my life?
I think a lot of people you meet have an impact on your life in different ways. Probably the biggest impact are my parents and my family. They have been through everything with me.
What is the kindest thing somebody has ever done for you?
The kindest things? I don’t really know but my mum would always be there and always do whatever I wanted or needed. Which is something that is when you think about it, it’s a unique thing that I had.
Who makes you laugh the most?
My sister. We get the giggles all the time!
Which place feels most like home outside of your own?
I feel quite at home here in Manchester, so right now here.
What’s the biggest risk you’ve ever taken?
Probably moving abroad to play football.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
I always liked to believe that if you worked hard, you get what you deserve in the end. That is something that has stuck with me.
What is something you’ve changed your mind about over the years?
I wouldn’t say I’ve changed; I’ve understood the importance of relationships in life and people. It’s a huge part of life!
What is something you wished you knew when you were younger, or if you could tell your younger self something what would it be?
Probably that you should continue following your dreams and do what you want to do.
What is something people often get wrong about you?
A lot of people have told me that I’m not friendly, or that I’m different once you get to know me.
What makes you feel happiest away from football?
Being around people I love.
What is one thing in life you still want to experience, whether it be a place or doing something?
I like to travel, so maybe experience new places or countries.
Is there a certain place where you’re like: ‘I must go there!’?
I have quite a big list so not like one specific place.
Finally, what excites you most about the future?
All the opportunities that there is and everything you can do if you just want too.
