Sandy MacIver has explained how working closely with Everton goalkeeping coach Ian McCaldon has taken her game to the "next level”, as she prepares for an exciting summer of international football.
MacIver was a consistently impressive performer in 2020/21 and her status as a key player in the Everton squad was underlined when she won the Club’s Young Player of the Season prize.
The 22-year-old stopper made her senior England debut in February and has been selected in head coach Hege Riise’s squad for the Lionesses’ forthcoming international training camp, which begins on Sunday.
MacIver is also one of four reserve players who will travel with the 18-strong Team GB squad for the upcoming Olympic Games in Tokyo.
Speaking to evertonfc.com, MacIver outlined how the expert guidance she has received from McCaldon has elevated her performances.
McCaldon joined Everton in November 2020 from North American Women’s Soccer League side Washington Spirit and his vast experience also includes five years with the Scottish Women’s national team as goalkeeper coach.
“Ian has really helped me,” said MacIver.
“Whenever you get a new coach in the middle of the season, it can be difficult to adjust, but Tinni [Korpela, fellow Everton goalkeeper] and I didn’t need much time to adjust to how Ian works.
“In the time he’s been at Everton, I feel I’m starting to take my game to the next level.
“To have someone like him here, who has worked with top players in America, is fantastic.
“I feel like I am improving my general game all the time.”
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Following her international commitments, MacIver will return to an Everton squad which boss Willie Kirk has confirmed he expects to bolster with quality additions during the transfer window.
Any new arrivals will join a highly-talented and motivated group of players, with the Blues eager to build on a fifth-placed WSL finish in 2020/21.
The collective belief in Everton’s ambition was highlighted when MacIver joined dynamic midfield duo Izzy Christiansen and Lucy Graham in signing an extended contract with the Club earlier this year.
Talented teenage Academy graduate Grace Clinton has also penned new terms, while electric forward Claire Emslie made her loan move from Orlando Pride permanent.
“When top players like Izzy and Lucy sign new deals – and people like Claire join the Club – it’s a real statement,” added MacIver.
“It shows we’re not willing to let our best players go to other teams.
“It shows what our long-term goals are, too.
“We want to play in the Champions League and to compete for silverware.
"It’s an exciting club to be at and I think our future is bright.”
