Women’s football in Scotland continues to grow each year and has seen huge strides taken this season.
The Scottish national team has played in front of around 6,000 fans for each qualifying game at Hampden Park, while Celtic Park, Tynecastle, Easter Road, Firhill and The Tony Macaroni Stadium have all hosted women’s domestic games throughout the season, with more big venues expected to come before the season ends in May.
Add into the mix that Scotland’s top tier now has three fully-professional women’s clubs and the outlook of the women’s game in Scotland has never been brighter.
And with more and more fans taking an interest in the SWPL and the league’s below, many are wondering if this weekend is the opportunity to take in a women’s football game for the first time.
However, if you are new to the SWPL or the women’s game, the questions are simple: who are the players to look out for – and second of all – who are the bright, young talents destined to be the future of the game?
Late last year, we asked a panel of current SWPL managers, assistant managers, coaches and players as well as former players, SWPL experts and journalists to give us their list of the 10 best players in the SWPL and came up with the definitive list of best players in the Scottish women’s top tier.
So, we thought we’d do it again, but this take grab their opinions on which teenage sensations they see as bright hopes for the league in years to come.
The panel – all of whom are respected voices within the Scottish game – contributed anonymously so their choices are not guided by club or professional loyalties.
So, without further ado, here is the list of the best 20 SWPL players under the age of 20 for season 2021/22.
Is your favourite player featured?
This list is in no particular order

17. Maria McAneny - Hearts (on loan from Celtic)
Another Hearts youngster making waves is Maria McAneny, who joined on loan from Celtic in the summer. Good in possession, McAneny also has an eye for goal - as shown by a sumptuous striker last week beauty against Hibs. Photo: Simon Wootton - SNS Group

18. Freya Macdonald - Partick Thistle
Another of Brian Graham's Partick Thistle squad, Scotland U17 regular full-back Freya Macdonald has made the step up to the SWPL with ease. Photo: 41 Sports Media

19. Emma Watson - Rangers
Another Rangers youngster who has made an impact on their title chasing team is Emma Watson. Despite only just turning 16, she is a one to watch, as the youngster will likely continue to flourish in the seasons to come. Photo: Alex Todd/SPP/Shutterstock

20. Eilidh Martin - Motherwell (on loan from Rangers)
On-loan defender Eilidh Martin is capable across any position in the back four and has enjoyed a great season on loan at Motherwell after arriving from Rangers in July. Photo: Tommy Hughes/Glasgow City

