Khadija Shaw’s hat-trick heroics for Man City ‘like watching a video game’

Shaw’s quick hat-trick surpassed the previous record set by former Arsenal striker Kelly Smith, who scored three goals in 16 minutes against Bristol Academy in 2014.

Remarkably, this was Shaw’s fourth consecutive hat-trick against Tottenham in the WSL at the Joie Stadium.

She has scored 18 goals in 18 WSL appearances this season and has scored 16 goals against Tottenham (15 goals, one assist) during her five-year career in England.

Her achievements are likely to take her to a third consecutive WSL Golden Boot by the end of the campaign and she will certainly be in the running for Player of the Year.

“It was a lovely afternoon, I must say. Especially in the back [0-0 draw with Aston Villa] “Last week,” Shaw said. “I’ve got great players around me and I’m trying to do my best at the top end of the pitch.”

While his goals grabbed the headlines, it was Shaw’s work rate off the ball that really caught Coffey’s attention.

“I feel like what you see is what you get. He’s so exciting, so good, so dominant,” Coffey added.

“I liked the defensive effort [against Tottenham]. When he presses, I think he is one of the best pressing number nines in the world.

“It was a pleasure to play with him. I have respected him for years, but now it is a privilege to know him and be his teammate.”

For any opponent, facing Shaw is one of the greatest challenges in football.

Tottenham boss Martin Ho admitted his side could do little to stop him other than stop the ball from reaching him.

Does it instill fear in opposing players?

“I wouldn’t say it’s fear, but it’s definitely suspicion,” Ho said. “He is the best striker in the world by a mile.

“He scores goals with his feet, with his head, he has good link-up play and good mobility.

“There were times in the first half when we could have gone close or stopped crosses and when you don’t you get punished.”