Latest news with #FranKirby
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Lioness Fran Kirby opens up on 'sudden' diagnosis that saw her step back from football
The former Chelsea midfielder was forced to temporarily step back from football in 2019 after receiving a painful diagnosis Footballer Fran Kirby has spoken out about her frightening experience of pericarditis, after experiencing symptoms similar to indigestion. The athlete, who played for England's Lionesses for 11 years, thought it spelt the end of her career and took time to recover in 2019. "It's quite a sudden and dramatic story, to be honest," the former Chelsea midfielder told the Mirror in an exclusive interview. "I was just at home, having dinner and with my two teammates, and I went to take a sip of Coke Zero, and then it just all of a sudden just got really, really bad chest pains. "And it kind of felt a little bit like indigestion, but it was like 300 times worse than what I was used to. And I sat there for a couple of seconds thinking, 'Okay, like, is this going to pass? Is it going to go away?' And it just never did. "And then I started to panic and get a little bit kind of frantic around the table. And I was just kept saying, 'I don't feel well. I don't feel well, there's something wrong.'" In a matter of moments, Fran was overcome with dizziness and collapsed on the floor. Paramedics rushed to her aid and, while they initially said everything looked fine, a doctor wasn't quite convinced. "The pain in my chest was so extreme – it literally felt like someone was trying to pull it out," Fran continued. "I was really fatigued leading up to it, but as an athlete, that's normal. It wasn't until the chest pain hit that I knew something was seriously wrong. "He got me seen by a cardiologist, and that's when I was diagnosed with pericarditis." Pericarditis is an inflammation of the heart's outer lining, affecting roughly 28 in every 100,000 people each year, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Whilst it's curable and not usually serious, it can give rise to several complications and is generally accompanied by incredibly debilitating symptoms. For Fran, this not only included chest pain but severe fatigue that even made climbing the stairs difficult. In light of this, she had no choice but to step away from football for several months. She described this as the 'hardest thing', entirely stripping her of her identity. "I'd always seen myself as Fran, the footballer," the 32-year-old added. "I thought, 'Give it a couple of weeks and it'll be fine. I'll be ready to go.' And the doctor said, 'No, no, no, you need to take this quite seriously. You can't push yourself until you're ready to do so.' "So, I think once I got through the early stages and I still was feeling quite poorly, I thought, 'Okay, this is going to be a long time now." After a course of anti-inflammatory medication and a lengthy recovery period, Fran eventually resumed playing football, returning in time to make the Lionesses' winning EURO 2022 squad. She retired from the Lionesses in June this year but is still deemed ' one of the most recognisable faces of England's rise ', boasting 79 caps and 19 goals across her international career. She also signed for Brighton & Hove Albion in July 2024. READ MORE: 'I didn't walk my dog for 9 months - but experts say this is the best thing I could have done' Reflecting on the whole ordeal, Fran said she's now far more conscious of her well-being and is keen to stress that not everyone with heart issues looks how you might expect them to. "Being a healthy athlete who trained since I was five years old, I never felt that I would ever have a problem with my heart," she continued. "Luckily, I'm back to full health now. I'm training just as hard as I used to, and don't need ongoing treatment. "...I'm so much more aware of the power of keeping track of my health. As an athlete and as a person, knowledge is power. To understand what's going on inside and understand why you're feeling a certain way, and to just not suffer. "I think for so many years, so many people just accept that it's normal to feel illness or pain when actually, it might be something that you can get help with. To understand your body is one of the most powerful things you can do. "That's why I'm taking part in the On the Ball campaign with Bluecrest, because I think ongoing monitoring is just so important to help you understand your health and potentially prevent something that could make you very ill. I've had my first Bluecrest health assessment, and I'm even more into my health stats now!" To find out more about Fran's participation in the On the Ball campaign, visit Bluecrest's website here.
The Guardian
28-07-2025
- Sport
- The Guardian
Jess Carter stands tall as an England hero after highs and lows of Euro 2025
It has been quite the journey but at the end of it Jess Carter was standing there with a beaming smile, having just made history with England at Euro 2025. Part of the Lionesses squad that defended their title from three years ago and became the first England side to win a major trophy abroad, she had been subjected to horrendous racial abuse from the start of the tournament. After the narrow quarter-final win against Sweden she revealed she was taking a step back from social media because of the abuse, saying: 'While I feel every fan is entitled to their opinion on performance and result I don't agree or think it's OK to target someone's appearance or race.' The Gotham FC defender, who played for Chelsea between 2018 and 2024, was then left out of the starting XI for the semi-final victory against Italy, only to return and produce her best performance of the tournament in the final against Spain, which England won on penalties. After the game Carter spoke about the toughness required to deal with the Spain attack. 'My previous manager at grassroots turned princesses into bulldozers,' she said. 'Not many of these girls get to see that princess side of me, but obviously my friends in Fran [Kirby] and Beth [England] do. 'That's what I tried to deliver today. I knew Spain were going to be hard to beat and I had to be on top form if we were going to come out with the chance of winning.' The most heartwarming sight, however, was the joy she was clearly feeling after putting a difficult two weeks behind her to be part of a rearguard that conceded only once against the world champions as the game ended 1-1 after extra time. Asked about having a giggle with the head coach, Sarina Wiegman, after the game she said: 'That is normally me. Throughout this tournament I've not felt that. I've been really quite sad and disappointed at the fact that I've not been the relaxed Jess I know. 'I'm someone that is 'what will be will be'. We go out there, give our all, and either it'll be enough or it won't. That's not how I've played this tournament until I got to this final where I thought: 'I'm going to give it my all.' If we lose, we lose, and if we win, great. In extra time Sarina was giving me a lot of information and we realised she just said a lot of words, and it was cool, like, we got this, and she's been great.' Esme Morgan was the player who came in for Carter for the semi-final and the fact that she was superb against Italy shows the strength in depth in the Lionesses' squad. There is, however, another aspect to this with the two centre-backs having enormous respect for each other. Carter, in fact, was surprised when she found out from Wiegman that she was starting against Spain. 'We went into training and she just sat me down and said: 'I'm thinking of starting you on Sunday.' I said: 'OK, thanks.' After I was thinking, are you sure? I can't shout loud enough for Esme. She's been an incredible team player, she was incredible when she came on the pitch. Every role she's been given, she was outstanding. So to have that faith from Sarina to put me back in the squad and that she believed that I could help this team to a trophy was amazing. It gave me a lot of confidence going into this game.' Sign up to Moving the Goalposts No topic is too small or too big for us to cover as we deliver a twice-weekly roundup of the wonderful world of women's football after newsletter promotion But even elite players have nerves and Carter admitted to ITV that she had been 'super scared' before the start of the final. 'I was super scared to play today for the first time in my life, but when I woke up and I saw my team, and the support I had and the belief I had from my teammates, my family and my manager, I knew I could just come out and give it my all. That's all you can do.' Carter did just that against Esther González, Mariona Caldentey, Athenea del Castillo and all the other Spanish attackers – and it was enough to win a second European Championship. At the final whistle there was only happiness, not sadness – a wonderful ending to a tough month.
Telegraph
28-07-2025
- Sport
- Telegraph
Wiegman's speeches and Reggie the dog help drive England to Euro 2025 glory
Sarina Wiegman defiantly declared ' there is no crisis ' as she named her Lionesses squad for Euro 2025. After two tumultuous weeks it had seemed as though Wiegman and England were in turmoil. Mary Earps and Fran Kirby had retired and Millie Bright had withdrawn herself from selection. Three senior players rocking the boat on the eve of a tournament – hardly ideal preparation. But in the aftermath of those turbulent weeks, Wiegman steadied the ship and guided her team away from the 'outside noise'. Somehow, after being on the brink of an early tournament exit following defeat in the opening game by France and subsequent talk over Wiegman's future, she and her players have won back-to-back European Championships. It has been a roller-coaster of a tournament from start to finish. After their semi-final victory over Italy, Wiegman declared she felt as though she was living in a film. The plot that has unfolded is greater than anything any scriptwriter could have created. The crisis The trouble started in the aftermath of Arsenal's Champions League victory. Their players were still enjoying their trophy parade when news broke that Bright had withdrawn from the England squad for the Nations League fixtures with Portugal and Spain because of physical and mental fatigue. At first, nothing appeared untoward. It had been a long season for Bright and an extended period of rest would not be a bad thing before a busy summer. But word began to spread that all was not as it seems. Telegraph Sport was told at the time that there was more to the Bright withdrawal and there was no guarantee that she would be back for the Euros. That same day, Earps told her team-mates she was retiring from international football. As Telegraph Sport reported at the time, Earps had been told she would not be the first-choice goalkeeper at this tournament. It is understood that Bright had similar conversations with Wiegman over her starting place. Tensions were high after Earps had delivered her speech. Wiegman is understood to have been too angry and upset to speak, before sharing words of frustration to Earps and the room. Kirby had been thinking of retiring before Earps had done so, with the forward unsure whether she was going to make Wiegman's 23-player squad. After seeking clarity, Kirby was told she was unlikely to make it and the forward made the decision to retire, announcing it after the Lionesses' game with Spain. Kirby's retirement was less disruptive than that of Earps. There was a recognition that she had given everything to try to make Wiegman's squad. The difference with Earps was that her retirement had left England with two back-up goalkeepers that were uncapped. The day after Kirby retired, Bright released a statement saying she was withdrawing herself from selection for the squad. The defender said she could not give 100 per cent either mentally or physically. Moving on Bright's announcement came a day before Wiegman named her squad for the Euros. To the outside, the Lionesses were in crisis. But Wiegman did not see it that way. Importantly, neither did her players. A meeting was called among the squad to address the two retirements and withdrawal, with the key takeaway being that they could not focus on those who were not part of the squad. The message was clear: 'We're here, they're not, we move on.' When England lost their opening game against France, it did not feel like they had. They had played poorly and had shown weaknesses in defence. That defeat meant their subsequent game with Netherlands, who had thrashed Wales 3-0, was a must-win. Wiegman was questioned in the aftermath of the France game. Had she been too slow with her substitutions? Had she got her team selection wrong? England had looked frantic and like a team playing with fear. Players had honest conversations with one another, with Lucy Bronze taking the lead. Bronze had been part of the 2015 World Cup squad that had lost their opening group game – also against France. In that tournament, England went on to make the semi-finals and Bronze hammered home that one game would not define their tournament. That is where the 'Proper England' phrase appeared to stem from. When Georgia Stanway addressed the press in the build-up to the Netherlands game, the midfielder said they wanted to get back to being 'Proper England'; that it was time to stop talking and take action. They duly obliged, thrashing Netherlands 4-0 to put qualification within their grasp. There was never any threat of them slipping up against Wales and their 5-1 victory set up a quarter-final with Sweden. Off-field influences The role of former international Jill Scott was key in keeping spirits high and players have spoken openly about how she has been a positive influence around the camp. Scott was part of the content team, conducting interviews with players for the Lionesses' social media channels and was often staying at the team hotel when she was not travelling to different parts of Switzerland. Keira Walsh said she decompressed after games by having a cup of tea with Scott on the coach back from games while Leah Williamson said she was integral to the squad harmony. Another important figure has been their unofficial emotional support dog, Reggie, who belongs to the owner of Cheals on Wheels, a mobile barista bar that has accompanied the team throughout the tournament. 'We have a coffee dog that helps,' Walsh said. 'I think most of the girls spend their time with him. 'I don't think he realises how much he's helped us. When we won the game, he came into the meal room afterwards, and we were all so happy to see him. So I think he's definitely been helping the most, it's fair to say.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lionesses (@lionesses) The team's hotel, the Dolder Grand, has been a home away from home – as was the case at Euro 2022 and the 2023 World Cup. Players relaxed by playing basketball and darts, while Michelle Agyemang even brought her keyboard with her. Many of the players also enjoy building Lego, with Agyemang and Bronze making a replica of Zurich's stadium, Stadion Letzigrund. Wiegman's speeches Wiegman reveals little about what she says to her players but she delivered a number of rousing speeches at this tournament. 'We had a good one before the Italy game the night before in the meeting, one that definitely stood out,' Ella Toone said. 'Then again before the game. 'Half-time is when it's tactics and you're talking tactics and what we can do to improve or what we're doing well. Sarina's speeches before the games have definitely got us motivated. Even though sometimes we have gone a goal down, you still remember the words that she said before the game and it makes you want to go out and put on a performance for the second half as well. 'She's been pulling them out of the bag. No matter what Sarina says you listen because she's reached five major tournament finals so she definitely knows what she's doing.' Williamson had praised Wiegman's speeches at Euro 2022 and the England manager gave some detail about what she had said in the build-up to this final. She said: 'Right before we went on the pitch, the main message was enjoy it. We've got so far in this tournament. I think we created something together again. These are the moments that you dream of, some couldn't even dream it because it wasn't possible when they were little kids, so go out there and enjoy it and play your very best game.' Beth Mead revealed that a message on Wiegman's toiletry bag actually proved inspirational, saying: 'Sarina had a certain little way of motivating us. It was great, it was funny, it was everything. She did it again tonight. 'She had a little toiletry bag that said 'B--ches get s--- done', and b-----s got s--- done today. That is it, drop the mic.' Knock-out drama The Lionesses had landed on the side of the draw that many viewed as easier after finishing second in the group, but their quarter- and semi-final games were anything but. They were poor for large periods against Sweden and found themselves 2-0 down at half-time. Chloe Kelly's introduction from the bench changed the game, with the forward setting up Bronze and Agyemang for two goals in the space of 102 seconds. The Lionesses then had to come through a chaotic penalty shoot-out, in which Sweden missed two match-winning spot kicks before Bronze scored and Smilla Holmberg fired high over the bar, giving England victory. Their performance against Italy in the semi-final was not much better and, after Barbara Bonansea's first-half goal, once again they looked to be heading out. But a 96th-minute equaliser from Agyemang forced extra time before Kelly won it in the 119th minute. If coming from behind twice was not enough, England did it for a third time to beat Spain in a thrilling final. Alessia Russo cancelled out Mariona Caldentey's opener and the Lionesses then had to defend for their lives to get to extra time and penalties. Mead and Williamson had their spot-kicks saved but Alex Greenwood, Niamh Charles and Kelly all converted theirs. Hampton saved from Caldentey and Aitana Bonmati, Salma Paralluelo dragged hers wide and that was enough for the Lionesses to come out on top. From crisis to champions. Few expected the Lionesses to win this tournament and on several occasions they should have been going home. But they showed incredible determination to overcome every bump in the road – and now they will go down as the greatest England team of all time.
Yahoo
27-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
To the Lionesses with love… from Ten Hag, Hodgkinson, Renard and those who know them best
Perhaps Ella Toone put it best. 'I think sometimes when you're in the moment and you're playing, you don't always think about how it's making your family feel,' she said this week. 'When you're here and sit with them, it really reminds you of why you're here and who you're here for and why you do what you do.' England's Lionesses have sent the nation through the gamut of emotions en route to one of the biggest nights in English football history in Switzerland today (Sunday), but few will have felt those more intensely than those who know and inspired them. As defending champions England prepare for their Euro 2025 final against World Cup holders Spain, The Athletic has collected messages from somebody special for all 23 players. From family, friends and former coaches to Olympic gold medalists, teachers and football royalty, this is their pride, their memories, their joy and their wishes as they look to make history once more. Fran Kirby and Beth England, Jess Carter's former England and Chelsea team-mates Hey Jess, Who'd have thought that little girl from Leamington Spa would be walking out for her third consecutive major tournament final? We know your journey has been a rollercoaster but we're so proud of not only the player but the person you've become. Especially how you've carried yourself in the most challenging circumstances. The sassy-princess personality, the care and love you give to your closest people and your bravery to speak up not only for yourself but for others is what inspires so many. Never change. You deserve all the accolades and plaudits. Go give Spain hell! Our princess bulldozer — can't wait to celebrate with you at some point! Lots of love Fran & Beth Judan Ali, who runs the Judan Ali Football Academy with Carter, its co-founder I have set up soccer schools across the world and I reached out through social media to ask Jess if she wanted to be the face of the programme I was setting up in east London for underserved communities, including mothers who wanted their daughters to play football. I wanted someone who understood the challenges of coming from that kind of background and what it meant to be a young girl in football, and she agreed to put her name to the academy. She and her partner, the Germany goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger, would take time out of their schedules to come and run the sessions. Jess was very loving and caring towards the kids. That's just who she is as a person. She has such a good heart. Jess was forthcoming, warm, extroverted and nurturing, and always wanting to promote football to girls. It's physically draining to know that someone like her has established herself yet finds that there's almost a vendetta against her on social media. She hardly puts a foot wrong. With what happened last week, I feel she knows she's got a good support network around her, and that's the most important thing. The Lionesses have pulled themselves together and shown unity, and that's massive, because she didn't have that before. Jess, there's nothing better than you having that smile on your face. To use one of your phrases: go smash it. Lisa Clinton, Grace Clinton's mum As soon as you could walk, you had a football at your feet. I'd be cooking in the kitchen and all I could hear was a ball being kicked around the house or in the garden. You owe me a fortune in lamps and ornaments! Aged six, you asked your dad to get you a team and he found you two — Saturday and Sunday. At eight, I remember one day a tearful boy said you played like a man. I said: 'Take no notice, it's a compliment!' Your hard work and commitment have got you here today. Enjoy and savour every minute, soak it all in. This is just the beginning. Grateful and blessed, Gracie mouse. Nigel, Lauren James' father Lauren, I will be cheering you on from the stands once again, giving you my full support. Seeing you grow as a footballer and as a person over the years has been a joy to behold. There have been obstacles along the way but your strength of character, as well as your talent, has seen you overcome them. Getting a winner's medal will be a great reward for all your efforts, but no matter what happens, remember you are already an inspiration to many. Gemma Davison, who coaches James at Chelsea LJ, Your personality has always been competitive, your expectations always so high. You know your ability and you are never in doubt that you can dominate any opponent. You've just got that edge and talent that everyone else would love to have: strong, two-footed, unpredictable, skilful and the ability to change a game in one moment. But the fire in you to just switch it on and annihilate teams is what sets you apart. You have had a rough ride at times but you always come out on top — your talent and technique are unmatched. I'm often asked, what is LJ like? My response is always: she cares, she's honest, she's real and she just wants to win at all costs. You came into the Euros after injury. You've shown so much perseverance to make it to this tournament. It's nothing short of amazing. You have so much more to give, and teams should fear what is to come. Good luck, GD Erik ten Hag, former Manchester United manager, a compatriot of England head coach Sarina Wiegman and her assistant Arjan Veurink. The latter will leave to take over the Netherlands women's team after this game Arjan, we grew up in the same region of Twente, and I invited you to some Ajax training sessions in 2020. It's a success story! Veni, Vedi, Vici — you came, you saw, you conquered. The flagship of Dutch (women's) football. Based on common sense, pragmatism and hard work. Today, you will put the finishing touches to your work! Anouk Dekker, former Netherlands international who played for them under Wiegman Sarina, watching you lead England, I feel both proud and inspired. Memories bring me back to our time during Euro 2017 and the 2019 World Cup. You always stayed calm and clear, taught us that being one unit is everything. You trust the process, you believed in us and, in the end, everyone else started to believe it too. Now I see it in the England squad. You bring out the best in every team you lead, no matter where you are. Your impact on women's football is global. You fifth consecutive major final… it's honestly inspiring! Good luck, enjoy it and keep making history! Jordan Glover, Leah Williamson's cousin — plus sons Henry, two, and Max, four months Hello Leah, We are coming to you from Costa del Tiffany Close. Obviously, we'd love you to be with us this weekend but we can't be. I would say 'Good luck', but this isn't about luck. You've worked b****y hard to get where you are. You deserve to be here… again, even though you are causing us extreme stress at home! You've been doing this since you were little, you know how this works and you know we believe in you. You're going to smash it, regardless of the outcome. Henry also has a message for you: 'No job is too big, no pup is too small. Come on, England!' Good luck, we love you a ton and we can't wait to see you when you come home. Wendie Renard, Lucy Bronze's former OL Lyonnes team-mate Lucy, congratulations on your journey! It's quite exceptional to see England reach three consecutive finals, whether it's the Euros at home, the World Cup or now another Euros. It shows a certain strength and a collective character. You are part of that. You are a competitor and a world-class player. I'm very happy for you. I hope with all my heart on Sunday that you and Alex Greenwood, also my former OL team-mate and now good friend, win and celebrate together. Maya Sher, age 10, Arsenal academy player, who met Alessia Russo after Euro 2022 Dear Lessi, What a tournament this has been for you and the team. As you get ready for the final, I just wanted to remind you how much you inspire me. My first memory of seeing you play was at the 2022 Euros quarter-final against Spain. You came on and set up Ella Toone for the equaliser before Georgia Stanway scored a banger. I remember you always having an impact on the game, no matter how long you played for. When I watch you now, I admire how unselfish and hard-working you are. You are not just a great player, but a lovely person who I always want to be around. You always make an effort with me and my brother Sebby, even when you don't have much time. I'm so lucky to be around an amazing role model like you. One of my favourite memories is when I came up to Manchester to see you in the autumn of 2022 and I made you put on North London Forever in the car. You were obviously still playing for Manchester United at the time, but I was doing my best to convince you to come to Arsenal. I think I deserve some credit for your transfer! You have inspired so many girls like me who want to play football and compete at the highest level. I wish you the best of luck in the final. We'll be cheering from Minnesota. Bring that trophy home! Love,Maya Great Britain's 2024 Olympic 800m gold medallist Keely Hodgkinson, who went to Fred Longworth High School in Greater Manchester with Toone Hey Ella, I'm so excited to watch you on Sunday! I want to wish you the best of luck. You guys have absolutely smashed it. You should be so proud of yourselves, and let's bring it home! Sending love. Ryan Brierley, Salford Red Devils rugby league player and agent of Jess Park Jess, I had only known you a couple of weeks. You were in the FA Cup final against Everton at Wembley and there were no fans there, because of the pandemic. I was watching on TV from a top-floor apartment in Hull, because I was playing for Hull Kingston Rovers at the time. You came on in the 70th minute and set up a goal for Georgia Stanway, and Manchester City won 3-1. I was jumping around, shouting and screaming at your assist! The police came and knocked on my door, because someone had reported there was a commotion. They looked around and saw it was just me on my own. I said: 'I was just cheering on my player. She has just set up the winning goal in the FA Cup final!' You never know what might happen on Sunday. If that opportunity arises, take it. Being part of a team which has made a Euros final, that doesn't come around often. However big or small a part you play on that journey will never be underestimated. If your time comes, it comes. More importantly than being a good footballer, you're a great person who does things the right way. Love you to pieces, Ryan Washington Spirit and Scotland goalkeeper Sandy MacIver, friend and team-mate of Esme Morgan with the Spirit, and previously at Manchester City and with England — currently cat-sitting Biscuits for her Ezzers!! What a whirlwind the last year has been for you! Moving to a new country, starting in a Euro semi-final and (arguably the best thing) becoming Biscuit's mum. I'm unbelievably proud to see you shining. You always put a smile on everyone's face, and to see you so happy after the Italy game made the cat-sitting all worth it! The Spirit girls will be cheering you all the way on Sunday! I miss you lots and can't wait to see you soon. Good luck!! Lots of love, Sandals Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, childhood friend of Maya Le Tissier Most weekends, Maya and I would travel together from Guernsey to England, when she was playing at Hampshire and I was at Southampton. When I was released by Southampton, we both played for our local team. She was always the best player. I don't get nervous watching her, and I think she's the same with me, because we both know each other can play. I mostly feel pride. We've been speaking during the tournament and she's loving every minute. Maya and the Lionesses have been a major part of why access to women's and girls' football in Guernsey has improved. It's tough to get off the island and see the opportunity. After Matt Le Tissier, Maya and I were the first to make that step. We're role models for the kids there and we visit schools and clubs when we go back. Whenever I meet the kids, they're always asking for Maya — they're probably more excited to see her than me! Everyone on Guernsey is just so happy to see her doing well. It gives those kids the belief that they can follow in our footsteps. She's got everyone's support. A massive, massive good luck to Maya and all the Lionesses. It's been disappointing for her that Maya hasn't played yet, but she doesn't know the effect you can have even without playing. In the (Under-21 men's) Euros, there were a few lads who didn't get on, but off the pitch everyone appreciated what they did and how they brought the group together. I'm sure the bubbly, happy person she is has brought everyone together so much in that team, and she probably doesn't even know it. I'm immensely proud of her. The whole family is, and everyone back home. Maya, all the best to you. I'll speak to you after the game — and I hope it's with that trophy. Canada Women manager Casey Stoney, former England team-mate of Greenwood Dear Alex, From being your much older team-mate at the 2015 World Cup, to your team-mate at Liverpool, to your head coach at Manchester United, it's been a privilege to watch your journey and see you grow into the player you are. Football comes with many ups and downs, and if we are truthful more downs than ups — and you've experienced the lot! You've come through every challenge and risen to the heights of playing in a European Championship final. You have earned this moment, so go and own it and be the great player that you are! Best of luck, Casey England and Arsenal legend Kelly Smith, now coaching Chloe Kelly at that club Hey Chloe, I remember you as a young whippersnapper at Arsenal, hungry to learn and eager to develop. I've followed your journey closely ever since, and it's been brilliant to see how far you've come. I'm buzzing to have you back at the club and to work with you day in, day out. The confidence you bring is contagious, it lifts the team and inspires everyone watching. Your crossing ability is on another level, and that cheeky personality (plus that penalty routine!) shows the kind of good arrogance I absolutely love. It's what makes you such a constant threat and a joy to watch. You've lit up the tournament again, now it's one last push against Spain. Go out there, be yourself, own the moment… and let's bring it home again! Backing you all the way. Big love,Kelly Bobby Zamora, the Queens Park Rangers striker whose last-minute Wembley goal earned the club promotion to the Premier League in 2014. QPR fan Kelly told family members before the Euro 2022 final at the same venue that Just a message for Chloe and the Lionesses. Girls, go out there and give it your best. The whole country is behind you, as they were in 2022 when Chloe scored that dramatic extra-time winner and sent the country into mayhem. You've all done a fantastic job so far. We're all behind you. I'm a father of three girls — two 15-year-olds and a nine-year-old. For you to go on and show the country that the women's game is here to stay and it's incredible and the level is amazing… you're inspirations for my girls. Keep up the great work. Chloe, you know what to do. Go out there and score another banger — and don't forget me in your celebration or your speech. And a little message to Georgia Stanway here, too. Georgia — I'm currently in Thailand fishing for Jullien's golden carp and massive siamese carp. I'll tell you what, you score me a winner in that final and I'll get you out here. I'll treat you. I know you're a big fisherwoman, and I'm extremely proud of you and everything you've done for England. Keep up the good work. Smash it. Good luck, Lionesses. Nick Jackson-Cooney, coached Stanway and Keira Walsh at Blackburn Rovers I've been at Blackburn a lot of years and people still come up to me and ask me about coaching those players. I don't make a point of telling people, but that history is there. When I watch them, you just sit back and think: 'I've had a small part in that'. To try and improve Keira's awareness and vision on the pitch, for example, I'd tell her: 'When you come in the car to training, look down the street and notice the colour of the second car you see'. I'd like to think she did. Seeing them literally on telly, playing for their country, knowing the amount of people out there wearing shirts with Walsh or Stanway on the back, the amount of people who have never met them but know everything about them — that makes you really proud and excited that they are influencing so many young girls in football now. They're the icons that people are looking up to. I have a music venue in Darwen (near Blackburn), Sound Lounge Extra, and we have been showing the Euros matches on the big screen. We're more than confident that Keira and Georgia can give a good game and be standout players. Everyone back here, in Blackburn and Darwen, is behind you and will be backing you all the way. All 150 of us at Sound Lounge Extra will be cheering you on. Come home with that medal. Luke Chadwick, former Manchester United midfielder and Stanway's mentor Georgia, I'm very grateful and incredibly inspired to have had a small part in your journey over the years. To see you develop into a truly world-class footballer and wonderful human being has been so rewarding. The only advice I can give you is just be yourself, play with no fear, full of character and enthusiasm — which I know you will, as you always do! Sarah Fox-Parry, Niamh Charles' head of PE at Upton Hall School in Birkenhead Niamh, you were a brilliant sportswoman and an absolute delight to teach. You were involved in every team within the school. I always wanted you to play netball and you always said: 'Sorry, I've got football!' You were so committed to your football. You truly reflect our school ethos, 'Age Quod Agis' (Whatever you do, do it well) and were one of the most academic students, so lovely and kind. You always pop into school whenever you can and present our annual sports awards. It means so much to us. A true role model to everyone. Upton is rooting for you! Helen Ward, former Wales international and head of women's football at Watford, Michelle Agyemang's former club Remember that game against Arsenal in the FA Cup? You touched the ball about six times in 90 minutes, you scored with your one chance and you were annoyed you couldn't get into the game more?! Don't worry about that! Your goals-to-minutes/touches ratio is out of this world right now! Enjoy every moment, and when you get on the pitch, just do what you do best — stick it in the back of the net. Everyone at Watford is very proud of you and the very small part we played in your development. Go get it! Carla Ward, Republic of Ireland head coach and Hannah Hampton's former Aston Villa manager Well, here we are. The place you're supposed to be. You're here for a reason. I remember that very first conversation, walking around the 3G pitch at Wast Hills. We chatted about where you wanted to go and what you wanted to be. It wasn't just England No 1. I remember saying to you: 'You can be world No 1 if you want to be.' You're right on track. All those firepit chats, the hard times and good times, it all comes down to now. It's all part of the journey. Plus, now you've made it, I don't need to sell your amazing art in galleries around the world! Now go and enjoy it! Just do your best. I'll see you very soon. Carla Betsy, Lotte Wubben-Moy's sister Wonderful Lotte! Your dedication, hard work and kindness to absolutely everyone are an inspiration to me every day. What you do on the pitch is incredible and what you do for everyone else off it is what makes you so unbelievably special. You make the world a better place. We're all with you cheering loud, loud, loud for our LWM. Soak it all up and enjoy every minute! Katie Startup, fellow Manchester City goalkeeper of Khiara Keating Hey Khi, Your little goalkeeper family is cheering you on all the way and can't wait to welcome you back (with a shiny new gold medal, of course). Your light and energy shines so bright, and is such a gift to every team and individual lucky enough to experience it. I've no doubt the England camp have had a fair few more laughs and smiles due to your influence, and what greater gift than to be able to light up the people around you. Every day, I get to see you grow and pull off crazy saves like it were the most nonchalant, bread-and-butter thing ever. It's a joy! This is just the start for you, and I'm so excited to see where this journey takes you. Go do your thing, enjoy the moment and bring it home! Big love always, Katie Orlando Pride midfielder Viviana Villacorta, Anna Moorhouse's team-mate and partner — and their dog, Betty From cheering on the Lionesses in the last Euros to being a part of their squad this year has been such a rollercoaster ride. Ever since we've been together, I've seen all the work and effort you've put in to get to the highest level and your unwavering determination has been nothing but inspirational. Watching you and the Lionesses fight tooth and nail every single game has been exciting, but the job's not done yet. Everyone in Orlando has been cheering you and the Lionesses on this tournament, and we can't wait for one final thriller. Good luck and bring that hardware home! All our love, Viv and Betty Steph Houghton, Lauren Hemp's former Manchester City and England team-mate Lauren, what an unbelievable player you are. From the moment I played against you at Bristol City, I knew you needed to be at the highest level you possibly could and I was so desperate to get you to Man City. To see how you've developed over the past few years — honestly, I'm so proud of you. When I think of someone who really, really stands out and does her job to the absolute maximum, it's you. Good people make things happen and Hempo, you're such a good person. Good luck, mate — go and smash it and score me one. Grant Holt, Norwich City legend who was pictured with a young Hemp when he was part of the youth setup at Carrow Road I've seen that picture of Lauren Hemp and me before, and it is a little bit surreal to realise what she's gone on to become since she was that age. But that's what we want to do as professional athletes and footballers: inspire the next generation. She's done absolutely incredibly. From playing with the boys and working her way through that sector to go on and achieve what she's done, she deserves it. I was fortunate enough to meet Lauren when England trained at St George's Park, so it was nice to see her up there in the camp, training and doing her stuff, and I gave her a call when England won the Euros in 2022 to congratulate her. She is well-regarded in Norwich, and came back not that long ago to open a new Norwich City Community Sports Foundation pitch, which is named after her. She's done a lot for the county and community sport, as well as for women and girls. I've been watching all the games. I watched the Sweden one with my mum and daughter, and one of the local football teams, Dereham, have got a new women's team and girls' section, so we've been putting all the matches on there and inviting all the players up. I'll be watching the final there. For Lauren, my message is to just keep doing what you've been doing. She's been as she always is: tenacious, strong, quick on the ball, doing what she does best. My message to the group is: don't stop, keep working to the very end and see where it takes you. Ben, Beth Mead's brother Beth and I always had each other's backs and we still do. Our thing is winding people up, so if we're together, you probably don't want to be in the same room as us! We'll team up and just pick on someone. If it's your day (to get it), it's your day. Her football career was demanding at the start, with Mum and Dad rushing around ferrying her everywhere. Beth tells a story about Mum working three jobs to fund it all, and that's true. We'd very rarely see Mum sometimes. Mum would say to me: 'Are you OK with this?' And I'd say: 'Yes — it's lovely to see what you're doing for Beth.' That's why Beth is the player she is today, but I never imagined her career would reach the scale it has. The teams got bigger and bigger. The achievements got bigger and bigger. Now, it's just gone to the moon. I never, ever thought she'd win the Euros final — now here we go again. At the last Euros, Beth gave me my proudest moment. We were going through so much as a family and everything aligned for us to be there and share such a special moment. When I hugged Mum and Dad in the stand as the final whistle went, I couldn't keep it together. It chokes me up to think about it. This time around, it means the world because we have the chance to do it again. We're missing Mum but she's watching over her. I get really emotional watching Beth play, especially for England. When she's playing for her country, I always seem to tear up and cry. I'm just mute. I can't talk to people. At the end of the game, when the teams are marching off, Beth is the first one to look in the crowd and find us. She'll mouth: I love you. In the past, she's ignored the stewards who tell her she'll be mobbed by fans because she wants to find me and Dad. That's really special. I struggle to put into words how proud I am of Beth. I tell her on an almost weekly basis, and I'll tell her again now: Beth, I'm super-proud of you. Let's hope you can do it again. Come on, England. Bring it home, Bethy. Love you. Leanne Hall, former Arsenal first-team assistant coach who also worked with Mead while coaching England's age-group teams I first met Beth when she was part of the England youth squads. A lot of the players are quite nervous when they first come in and she was the typical shy girl: didn't want to stay away from home and quite anxious. The Beth you see now flies when she's free or has the bit between her teeth. I have moments often where I stop, look at the game now and think: this is women's football? You don't realise it so much when you're in the bubble but you have times — at sold-out matches, for example — when it's easier to stand back and realise the impact these players have had. Beth has had a huge contribution. After the Euros, Arsenal's crowds increased and she had a big impact, because she's a superstar. I genuinely believe that if she went to another club, that would also be the case. That's testament to what she's done and how she's seen. She is fuelled by negativity and frustration. It lights a flame inside which results in enhanced performance and game-changing moments. She will relish Spain being the favourites. It will no doubt bring out Beth's best version. I wouldn't be surprised if she is the national hero on Monday morning. All the best, Beth… Do it for Yorkshire! Annie, Aggie Beever-Jones' sister, and Annie's boyfriend Ben To think you got your first England kit exactly 15 years ago today is surreal. Wear your shirt today with pride and joy for all you have achieved over the past 15 years and do it for the little seven-year-old ball of energy that you were. We'll be wearing your shirt today with immense gratification because we are truly so proud of you, our lucky No 19. We love you, our star girl, our bestie and the gorgeous birthday girl! Be the best that you can be, keep focused, smile like always and have fun. From Friday nights to the big stage under the lights, you have always shone the brightest. Good luck and enjoy it. Annie & Ben xx Steve Shipp, Chelsea academy coach who has worked with Beever-Jones I was Aggie's first coach when she came in on trial with the women's academy. I'll be really honest, I don't know why we turned her down. I could see she had all the physical attributes and was technically a good player who we could take on to the next level. There were some heated discussions, shall we say, between myself and some of the other technical staff at the time, which actually gives me even more pride in what she's gone on to achieve. She showed mental resilience to come back and show that a bump in the road is not a dead end. When she came back, it was a no-brainer for everyone: 'This girl needs to play for Chelsea. This is the place for her.' I work at the club in a different role now and one day Aggie walked past my office on her way to the team bus. She caught a glimpse of me at the office window. It was one of those moments where you look at each other and go: 'Wow, it's been so long'. She gave me a massive cuddle and we caught up on how things are going. The biggest thing about that moment is that she felt like the same person with the same massive smile on her face. I was happy to see her happy — that's the main thing you want for any of your former players. Aggie, you probably don't realise the amount of pride that all of us have taken in seeing your journey. We're just right behind you. Remember that you are inspiring the next generation of young female footballers in this country. Everything that you've done is making sure that the legacy of the Lionesses continues. Go and bring the trophy back home. Sarah Bern, of the England women's rugby union team The Red Roses just want the Lionesses to know that whatever happens on Sunday, what they're doing for women's sport as a whole is phenomenal. The more successful they are, and the better they are, the more successful all women's sports are. We have been cheering them on as much as we can. We were all together for the semi-final, empathising with them and putting ourselves in that scenario. That could be us soon, and it does trigger really deep emotions watching them succeed — it is so inspiring. We will always be cheering them on and wishing them all the absolute best, and know they will do the same for us when our home World Cup campaign starts next month. For them to go on and win it again, it would be unbelievable. I remember watching them win it in 2022 and I burst into tears. My sister asked me why I was crying. I told her it was because I know how hard they work and how many hours they have put in. It takes so much dedication and is extremely tiring to continuously do it. There are so many sacrifices you have to make, but they are reaping the rewards now. What they have achieved and how women's football has skyrocketed in the past few years is making us dream of what we can achieve this summer and beyond. Thank you and good luck, Lionesses. We will be watching and cheering you on, now and always. Sarah Bern and the Red Roses Additional reporting: Simon Johnson, Caoimhe O'Neill and Asli Pelit This article originally appeared in The Athletic. England, Premier League, Soccer, Women's Soccer, Women's Euros 2025 The Athletic Media Company
New York Times
27-07-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Times
To the Lionesses with love… from Ten Hag, Hodgkinson, Renard and those who know them best
Perhaps Ella Toone put it best. 'I think sometimes when you're in the moment and you're playing, you don't always think about how it's making your family feel,' she said this week. 'When you're here and sit with them, it really reminds you of why you're here and who you're here for and why you do what you do.' Advertisement England's Lionesses have sent the nation through the gamut of emotions en route to one of the biggest nights in English football history in Switzerland today (Sunday), but few will have felt those more intensely than those who know and inspired them. As defending champions England prepare for their Euro 2025 final against World Cup holders Spain, The Athletic has collected messages from somebody special for all 23 players. From family, friends and former coaches to Olympic gold medalists, teachers and football royalty, this is their pride, their memories, their joy and their wishes as they look to make history once more. Fran Kirby and Beth England, Jess Carter's former England and Chelsea team-mates Hey Jess, Who'd have thought that little girl from Leamington Spa would be walking out for her third consecutive major tournament final? We know your journey has been a rollercoaster but we're so proud of not only the player but the person you've become. Especially how you've carried yourself in the most challenging circumstances. The sassy-princess personality, the care and love you give to your closest people and your bravery to speak up not only for yourself but for others is what inspires so many. Never change. You deserve all the accolades and plaudits. Go give Spain hell! Our princess bulldozer — can't wait to celebrate with you at some point! Lots of love Fran & Beth Judan Ali, who runs the Judan Ali Football Academy with Carter, its co-founder I have set up soccer schools across the world and I reached out through social media to ask Jess if she wanted to be the face of the programme I was setting up in east London for underserved communities, including mothers who wanted their daughters to play football. I wanted someone who understood the challenges of coming from that kind of background and what it meant to be a young girl in football, and she agreed to put her name to the academy. Advertisement She and her partner, the Germany goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger, would take time out of their schedules to come and run the sessions. Jess was very loving and caring towards the kids. That's just who she is as a person. She has such a good heart. Jess was forthcoming, warm, extroverted and nurturing, and always wanting to promote football to girls. It's physically draining to know that someone like her has established herself yet finds that there's almost a vendetta against her on social media. She hardly puts a foot wrong. With what happened last week, I feel she knows she's got a good support network around her, and that's the most important thing. The Lionesses have pulled themselves together and shown unity, and that's massive, because she didn't have that before. Jess, there's nothing better than you having that smile on your face. To use one of your phrases: go smash it. Lisa Clinton, Grace Clinton's mum As soon as you could walk, you had a football at your feet. I'd be cooking in the kitchen and all I could hear was a ball being kicked around the house or in the garden. You owe me a fortune in lamps and ornaments! Aged six, you asked your dad to get you a team and he found you two — Saturday and Sunday. At eight, I remember one day a tearful boy said you played like a man. I said: 'Take no notice, it's a compliment!' Your hard work and commitment have got you here today. Enjoy and savour every minute, soak it all in. This is just the beginning. Grateful and blessed, Gracie mouse. Nigel, Lauren James' father Lauren, I will be cheering you on from the stands once again, giving you my full support. Seeing you grow as a footballer and as a person over the years has been a joy to behold. There have been obstacles along the way but your strength of character, as well as your talent, has seen you overcome them. Getting a winner's medal will be a great reward for all your efforts, but no matter what happens, remember you are already an inspiration to many. Gemma Davison, who coaches James at Chelsea LJ, Your personality has always been competitive, your expectations always so high. You know your ability and you are never in doubt that you can dominate any opponent. You've just got that edge and talent that everyone else would love to have: strong, two-footed, unpredictable, skilful and the ability to change a game in one moment. But the fire in you to just switch it on and annihilate teams is what sets you apart. Advertisement You have had a rough ride at times but you always come out on top — your talent and technique are unmatched. I'm often asked, what is LJ like? My response is always: she cares, she's honest, she's real and she just wants to win at all costs. You came into the Euros after injury. You've shown so much perseverance to make it to this tournament. It's nothing short of amazing. You have so much more to give, and teams should fear what is to come. Good luck, GD Erik ten Hag, former Manchester United manager, a compatriot of England head coach Sarina Wiegman and her assistant Arjan Veurink. The latter will leave to take over the Netherlands women's team after this game Arjan, we grew up in the same region of Twente, and I invited you to some Ajax training sessions in 2020. It's a success story! Veni, Vedi, Vici — you came, you saw, you conquered. The flagship of Dutch (women's) football. Based on common sense, pragmatism and hard work. Today, you will put the finishing touches to your work! Anouk Dekker, former Netherlands international who played for them under Wiegman Sarina, watching you lead England, I feel both proud and inspired. Memories bring me back to our time during Euro 2017 and the 2019 World Cup. You always stayed calm and clear, taught us that being one unit is everything. You trust the process, you believed in us and, in the end, everyone else started to believe it too. Now I see it in the England squad. You bring out the best in every team you lead, no matter where you are. Your impact on women's football is global. You fifth consecutive major final… it's honestly inspiring! Good luck, enjoy it and keep making history! Jordan Glover, Leah Williamson's cousin — plus sons Henry, two, and Max, four months Hello Leah, We are coming to you from Costa del Tiffany Close. Obviously, we'd love you to be with us this weekend but we can't be. I would say 'Good luck', but this isn't about luck. You've worked b****y hard to get where you are. You deserve to be here… again, even though you are causing us extreme stress at home! Advertisement You've been doing this since you were little, you know how this works and you know we believe in you. You're going to smash it, regardless of the outcome. Henry also has a message for you: 'No job is too big, no pup is too small. Come on, England!' Good luck, we love you a ton and we can't wait to see you when you come home. Wendie Renard, Lucy Bronze's former OL Lyonnes team-mate Lucy, congratulations on your journey! It's quite exceptional to see England reach three consecutive finals, whether it's the Euros at home, the World Cup or now another Euros. It shows a certain strength and a collective character. You are part of that. You are a competitor and a world-class player. I'm very happy for you. I hope with all my heart on Sunday that you and Alex Greenwood, also my former OL team-mate and now good friend, win and celebrate together. Maya Sher, age 10, Arsenal academy player, who met Alessia Russo after Euro 2022 Dear Lessi, What a tournament this has been for you and the team. As you get ready for the final, I just wanted to remind you how much you inspire me. My first memory of seeing you play was at the 2022 Euros quarter-final against Spain. You came on and set up Ella Toone for the equaliser before Georgia Stanway scored a banger. I remember you always having an impact on the game, no matter how long you played for. When I watch you now, I admire how unselfish and hard-working you are. You are not just a great player, but a lovely person who I always want to be around. You always make an effort with me and my brother Sebby, even when you don't have much time. I'm so lucky to be around an amazing role model like you. One of my favourite memories is when I came up to Manchester to see you in the autumn of 2022 and I made you put on North London Forever in the car. You were obviously still playing for Manchester United at the time, but I was doing my best to convince you to come to Arsenal. I think I deserve some credit for your transfer! Advertisement You have inspired so many girls like me who want to play football and compete at the highest level. I wish you the best of luck in the final. We'll be cheering from Minnesota. Bring that trophy home! Love, Maya Great Britain's 2024 Olympic 800m gold medallist Keely Hodgkinson, who went to Fred Longworth High School in Greater Manchester with Toone Hey Ella, I'm so excited to watch you on Sunday! I want to wish you the best of luck. You guys have absolutely smashed it. You should be so proud of yourselves, and let's bring it home! Sending love. Ryan Brierley, Salford Red Devils rugby league player and agent of Jess Park Jess, I had only known you a couple of weeks. You were in the FA Cup final against Everton at Wembley and there were no fans there, because of the pandemic. I was watching on TV from a top-floor apartment in Hull, because I was playing for Hull Kingston Rovers at the time. You came on in the 70th minute and set up a goal for Georgia Stanway, and Manchester City won 3-1. I was jumping around, shouting and screaming at your assist! The police came and knocked on my door, because someone had reported there was a commotion. They looked around and saw it was just me on my own. I said: 'I was just cheering on my player. She has just set up the winning goal in the FA Cup final!' You never know what might happen on Sunday. If that opportunity arises, take it. Being part of a team which has made a Euros final, that doesn't come around often. However big or small a part you play on that journey will never be underestimated. If your time comes, it comes. More importantly than being a good footballer, you're a great person who does things the right way. Love you to pieces, Ryan Washington Spirit and Scotland goalkeeper Sandy MacIver, friend and team-mate of Esme Morgan with the Spirit, and previously at Manchester City and with England — currently cat-sitting Biscuits for her Ezzers!! What a whirlwind the last year has been for you! Moving to a new country, starting in a Euro semi-final and (arguably the best thing) becoming Biscuit's mum. I'm unbelievably proud to see you shining. You always put a smile on everyone's face, and to see you so happy after the Italy game made the cat-sitting all worth it! A post shared by Esme Morgan (@ The Spirit girls will be cheering you all the way on Sunday! I miss you lots and can't wait to see you soon. Good luck!! Lots of love, Sandals Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, childhood friend of Maya Le Tissier Most weekends, Maya and I would travel together from Guernsey to England, when she was playing at Hampshire and I was at Southampton. When I was released by Southampton, we both played for our local team. She was always the best player. I don't get nervous watching her, and I think she's the same with me, because we both know each other can play. I mostly feel pride. We've been speaking during the tournament and she's loving every minute. Advertisement Maya and the Lionesses have been a major part of why access to women's and girls' football in Guernsey has improved. It's tough to get off the island and see the opportunity. After Matt Le Tissier, Maya and I were the first to make that step. We're role models for the kids there and we visit schools and clubs when we go back. Whenever I meet the kids, they're always asking for Maya — they're probably more excited to see her than me! Everyone on Guernsey is just so happy to see her doing well. It gives those kids the belief that they can follow in our footsteps. She's got everyone's support. A massive, massive good luck to Maya and all the Lionesses. It's been disappointing for her that Maya hasn't played yet, but she doesn't know the effect you can have even without playing. In the (Under-21 men's) Euros, there were a few lads who didn't get on, but off the pitch everyone appreciated what they did and how they brought the group together. I'm sure the bubbly, happy person she is has brought everyone together so much in that team, and she probably doesn't even know it. I'm immensely proud of her. The whole family is, and everyone back home. Maya, all the best to you. I'll speak to you after the game — and I hope it's with that trophy. Canada Women manager Casey Stoney, former England team-mate of Greenwood Dear Alex, From being your much older team-mate at the 2015 World Cup, to your team-mate at Liverpool, to your head coach at Manchester United, it's been a privilege to watch your journey and see you grow into the player you are. Football comes with many ups and downs, and if we are truthful more downs than ups — and you've experienced the lot! You've come through every challenge and risen to the heights of playing in a European Championship final. You have earned this moment, so go and own it and be the great player that you are! Advertisement Best of luck, Casey England and Arsenal legend Kelly Smith, now coaching Chloe Kelly at that club Hey Chloe, I remember you as a young whippersnapper at Arsenal, hungry to learn and eager to develop. I've followed your journey closely ever since, and it's been brilliant to see how far you've come. I'm buzzing to have you back at the club and to work with you day in, day out. The confidence you bring is contagious, it lifts the team and inspires everyone watching. Your crossing ability is on another level, and that cheeky personality (plus that penalty routine!) shows the kind of good arrogance I absolutely love. It's what makes you such a constant threat and a joy to watch. You've lit up the tournament again, now it's one last push against Spain. Go out there, be yourself, own the moment… and let's bring it home again! Backing you all the way. Big love, Kelly Bobby Zamora, the Queens Park Rangers striker whose last-minute Wembley goal earned the club promotion to the Premier League in 2014. QPR fan Kelly told family members before the Euro 2022 final at the same venue that 'there's going to be a Bobby Zamora moment today' Just a message for Chloe and the Lionesses. Girls, go out there and give it your best. The whole country is behind you, as they were in 2022 when Chloe scored that dramatic extra-time winner and sent the country into mayhem. You've all done a fantastic job so far. We're all behind you. I'm a father of three girls — two 15-year-olds and a nine-year-old. For you to go on and show the country that the women's game is here to stay and it's incredible and the level is amazing… you're inspirations for my girls. Keep up the great work. Chloe, you know what to do. Go out there and score another banger — and don't forget me in your celebration or your speech. And a little message to Georgia Stanway here, too. Georgia — I'm currently in Thailand fishing for Jullien's golden carp and massive siamese carp. I'll tell you what, you score me a winner in that final and I'll get you out here. I'll treat you. I know you're a big fisherwoman, and I'm extremely proud of you and everything you've done for England. Advertisement Keep up the good work. Smash it. Good luck, Lionesses. Nick Jackson-Cooney, coached Stanway and Keira Walsh at Blackburn Rovers I've been at Blackburn a lot of years and people still come up to me and ask me about coaching those players. I don't make a point of telling people, but that history is there. When I watch them, you just sit back and think: 'I've had a small part in that'. To try and improve Keira's awareness and vision on the pitch, for example, I'd tell her: 'When you come in the car to training, look down the street and notice the colour of the second car you see'. I'd like to think she did. Seeing them literally on telly, playing for their country, knowing the amount of people out there wearing shirts with Walsh or Stanway on the back, the amount of people who have never met them but know everything about them — that makes you really proud and excited that they are influencing so many young girls in football now. They're the icons that people are looking up to. I have a music venue in Darwen (near Blackburn), Sound Lounge Extra, and we have been showing the Euros matches on the big screen. We're more than confident that Keira and Georgia can give a good game and be standout players. Everyone back here, in Blackburn and Darwen, is behind you and will be backing you all the way. All 150 of us at Sound Lounge Extra will be cheering you on. Come home with that medal. Luke Chadwick, former Manchester United midfielder and Stanway's mentor Georgia, I'm very grateful and incredibly inspired to have had a small part in your journey over the years. To see you develop into a truly world-class footballer and wonderful human being has been so rewarding. The only advice I can give you is just be yourself, play with no fear, full of character and enthusiasm — which I know you will, as you always do! Sarah Fox-Parry, Niamh Charles' head of PE at Upton Hall School in Birkenhead Niamh, you were a brilliant sportswoman and an absolute delight to teach. You were involved in every team within the school. I always wanted you to play netball and you always said: 'Sorry, I've got football!' You were so committed to your football. You truly reflect our school ethos, 'Age Quod Agis' (Whatever you do, do it well) and were one of the most academic students, so lovely and kind. You always pop into school whenever you can and present our annual sports awards. It means so much to us. A true role model to everyone. Upton is rooting for you! Helen Ward, former Wales international and head of women's football at Watford, Michelle Agyemang's former club Remember that game against Arsenal in the FA Cup? You touched the ball about six times in 90 minutes, you scored with your one chance and you were annoyed you couldn't get into the game more?! Don't worry about that! Your goals-to-minutes/touches ratio is out of this world right now! Enjoy every moment, and when you get on the pitch, just do what you do best — stick it in the back of the net. Advertisement Everyone at Watford is very proud of you and the very small part we played in your development. Go get it! Carla Ward, Republic of Ireland head coach and Hannah Hampton's former Aston Villa manager Well, here we are. The place you're supposed to be. You're here for a reason. I remember that very first conversation, walking around the 3G pitch at Wast Hills. We chatted about where you wanted to go and what you wanted to be. It wasn't just England No 1. I remember saying to you: 'You can be world No 1 if you want to be.' You're right on track. All those firepit chats, the hard times and good times, it all comes down to now. It's all part of the journey. Plus, now you've made it, I don't need to sell your amazing art in galleries around the world! Now go and enjoy it! Just do your best. I'll see you very soon. Carla Betsy, Lotte Wubben-Moy's sister Wonderful Lotte! Your dedication, hard work and kindness to absolutely everyone are an inspiration to me every day. What you do on the pitch is incredible and what you do for everyone else off it is what makes you so unbelievably special. You make the world a better place. We're all with you cheering loud, loud, loud for our LWM. Soak it all up and enjoy every minute! Katie Startup, fellow Manchester City goalkeeper of Khiara Keating Hey Khi, Your little goalkeeper family is cheering you on all the way and can't wait to welcome you back (with a shiny new gold medal, of course). Your light and energy shines so bright, and is such a gift to every team and individual lucky enough to experience it. I've no doubt the England camp have had a fair few more laughs and smiles due to your influence, and what greater gift than to be able to light up the people around you. Every day, I get to see you grow and pull off crazy saves like it were the most nonchalant, bread-and-butter thing ever. It's a joy! This is just the start for you, and I'm so excited to see where this journey takes you. Advertisement Go do your thing, enjoy the moment and bring it home! Big love always, Katie Orlando Pride midfielder Viviana Villacorta, Anna Moorhouse's team-mate and partner — and their dog, Betty From cheering on the Lionesses in the last Euros to being a part of their squad this year has been such a rollercoaster ride. Ever since we've been together, I've seen all the work and effort you've put in to get to the highest level and your unwavering determination has been nothing but inspirational. Watching you and the Lionesses fight tooth and nail every single game has been exciting, but the job's not done yet. Everyone in Orlando has been cheering you and the Lionesses on this tournament, and we can't wait for one final thriller. Good luck and bring that hardware home! All our love, Viv and Betty Steph Houghton, Lauren Hemp's former Manchester City and England team-mate Lauren, what an unbelievable player you are. From the moment I played against you at Bristol City, I knew you needed to be at the highest level you possibly could and I was so desperate to get you to Man City. To see how you've developed over the past few years — honestly, I'm so proud of you. When I think of someone who really, really stands out and does her job to the absolute maximum, it's you. Good people make things happen and Hempo, you're such a good person. Good luck, mate — go and smash it and score me one. Grant Holt, Norwich City legend who was pictured with a young Hemp when he was part of the youth setup at Carrow Road I've seen that picture of Lauren Hemp and me before, and it is a little bit surreal to realise what she's gone on to become since she was that age. But that's what we want to do as professional athletes and footballers: inspire the next generation. She's done absolutely incredibly. From playing with the boys and working her way through that sector to go on and achieve what she's done, she deserves it. Advertisement I was fortunate enough to meet Lauren when England trained at St George's Park, so it was nice to see her up there in the camp, training and doing her stuff, and I gave her a call when England won the Euros in 2022 to congratulate her. She is well-regarded in Norwich, and came back not that long ago to open a new Norwich City Community Sports Foundation pitch, which is named after her. She's done a lot for the county and community sport, as well as for women and girls. I've been watching all the games. I watched the Sweden one with my mum and daughter, and one of the local football teams, Dereham, have got a new women's team and girls' section, so we've been putting all the matches on there and inviting all the players up. I'll be watching the final there. For Lauren, my message is to just keep doing what you've been doing. She's been as she always is: tenacious, strong, quick on the ball, doing what she does best. My message to the group is: don't stop, keep working to the very end and see where it takes you. Ben, Beth Mead's brother Beth and I always had each other's backs and we still do. Our thing is winding people up, so if we're together, you probably don't want to be in the same room as us! We'll team up and just pick on someone. If it's your day (to get it), it's your day. Her football career was demanding at the start, with Mum and Dad rushing around ferrying her everywhere. Beth tells a story about Mum working three jobs to fund it all, and that's true. We'd very rarely see Mum sometimes. Mum would say to me: 'Are you OK with this?' And I'd say: 'Yes — it's lovely to see what you're doing for Beth.' That's why Beth is the player she is today, but I never imagined her career would reach the scale it has. The teams got bigger and bigger. The achievements got bigger and bigger. Now, it's just gone to the moon. I never, ever thought she'd win the Euros final — now here we go again. At the last Euros, Beth gave me my proudest moment. We were going through so much as a family and everything aligned for us to be there and share such a special moment. When I hugged Mum and Dad in the stand as the final whistle went, I couldn't keep it together. It chokes me up to think about it. This time around, it means the world because we have the chance to do it again. We're missing Mum but she's watching over her. I get really emotional watching Beth play, especially for England. When she's playing for her country, I always seem to tear up and cry. I'm just mute. I can't talk to people. Advertisement At the end of the game, when the teams are marching off, Beth is the first one to look in the crowd and find us. She'll mouth: I love you. In the past, she's ignored the stewards who tell her she'll be mobbed by fans because she wants to find me and Dad. That's really special. I struggle to put into words how proud I am of Beth. I tell her on an almost weekly basis, and I'll tell her again now: Beth, I'm super-proud of you. Let's hope you can do it again. Come on, England. Bring it home, Bethy. Love you. Leanne Hall, former Arsenal first-team assistant coach who also worked with Mead while coaching England's age-group teams I first met Beth when she was part of the England youth squads. A lot of the players are quite nervous when they first come in and she was the typical shy girl: didn't want to stay away from home and quite anxious. The Beth you see now flies when she's free or has the bit between her teeth. I have moments often where I stop, look at the game now and think: this is women's football? You don't realise it so much when you're in the bubble but you have times — at sold-out matches, for example — when it's easier to stand back and realise the impact these players have had. Beth has had a huge contribution. After the Euros, Arsenal's crowds increased and she had a big impact, because she's a superstar. I genuinely believe that if she went to another club, that would also be the case. That's testament to what she's done and how she's seen. She is fuelled by negativity and frustration. It lights a flame inside which results in enhanced performance and game-changing moments. She will relish Spain being the favourites. It will no doubt bring out Beth's best version. I wouldn't be surprised if she is the national hero on Monday morning. All the best, Beth… Do it for Yorkshire! Annie, Aggie Beever-Jones' sister, and Annie's boyfriend Ben To think you got your first England kit exactly 15 years ago today is surreal. Wear your shirt today with pride and joy for all you have achieved over the past 15 years and do it for the little seven-year-old ball of energy that you were. We'll be wearing your shirt today with immense gratification because we are truly so proud of you, our lucky No 19. Advertisement We love you, our star girl, our bestie and the gorgeous birthday girl! Be the best that you can be, keep focused, smile like always and have fun. From Friday nights to the big stage under the lights, you have always shone the brightest. Good luck and enjoy it. Annie & Ben xx Steve Shipp, Chelsea academy coach who has worked with Beever-Jones I was Aggie's first coach when she came in on trial with the women's academy. I'll be really honest, I don't know why we turned her down. I could see she had all the physical attributes and was technically a good player who we could take on to the next level. There were some heated discussions, shall we say, between myself and some of the other technical staff at the time, which actually gives me even more pride in what she's gone on to achieve. She showed mental resilience to come back and show that a bump in the road is not a dead end. When she came back, it was a no-brainer for everyone: 'This girl needs to play for Chelsea. This is the place for her.' I work at the club in a different role now and one day Aggie walked past my office on her way to the team bus. She caught a glimpse of me at the office window. It was one of those moments where you look at each other and go: 'Wow, it's been so long'. She gave me a massive cuddle and we caught up on how things are going. The biggest thing about that moment is that she felt like the same person with the same massive smile on her face. I was happy to see her happy — that's the main thing you want for any of your former players. Aggie, you probably don't realise the amount of pride that all of us have taken in seeing your journey. We're just right behind you. Remember that you are inspiring the next generation of young female footballers in this country. Everything that you've done is making sure that the legacy of the Lionesses continues. Go and bring the trophy back home. Sarah Bern, of the England women's rugby union team The Red Roses just want the Lionesses to know that whatever happens on Sunday, what they're doing for women's sport as a whole is phenomenal. The more successful they are, and the better they are, the more successful all women's sports are. We have been cheering them on as much as we can. We were all together for the semi-final, empathising with them and putting ourselves in that scenario. That could be us soon, and it does trigger really deep emotions watching them succeed — it is so inspiring. We will always be cheering them on and wishing them all the absolute best, and know they will do the same for us when our home World Cup campaign starts next month. Advertisement For them to go on and win it again, it would be unbelievable. I remember watching them win it in 2022 and I burst into tears. My sister asked me why I was crying. I told her it was because I know how hard they work and how many hours they have put in. It takes so much dedication and is extremely tiring to continuously do it. There are so many sacrifices you have to make, but they are reaping the rewards now. What they have achieved and how women's football has skyrocketed in the past few years is making us dream of what we can achieve this summer and beyond. Thank you and good luck, Lionesses. We will be watching and cheering you on, now and always. Sarah Bern and the Red Roses Additional reporting: Simon Johnson, Caoimhe O'Neill and Asli Pelit (Top photos: Getty Images, the Sher family; design: Kelsea Petersen)
