In this episode of A Level Playing Field, Celtic and Scotland midfielder Maria McAneny sits down for an in-depth conversation about her journey through the game - from academy prospect to one of the most exciting young talents in the SWPL.

Maria reflects on coming through Celtic’s academy system and what it takes to make the transition from youth football into the senior environment.

She opens up about her pivotal loan spell at Hearts at just 17, the responsibility that came with stepping into first-team football so young, and how that experience accelerated her development both on and off the pitch.

We revisit some of the standout moments that have defined her rise so far - scoring from the halfway line against Hibs, finding the net at Celtic Park, and the unforgettable feeling of scoring on her Scotland debut.

She shares what it meant to pull on the national team shirt, to line up alongside established stars like Caroline Weir, and to test herself against world-class opposition including Lucy Bronze.

Beyond the highlights, Maria also talks about the influence of family — including her dad’s lifelong Celtic devotion (and his wish to name the family dog Larsson and how that grounding has shaped her mentality.

With Celtic firmly in the title conversation this season, she discusses the squad’s ambitions, belief within the dressing room, and what it will take to turn potential into silverware.

Honest, thoughtful and driven, this is a conversation that explores the mindset behind the moments and the hunger still pushing her forward.

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