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    ‘Playing for England is the dream, but I’ll focus on what I can control’, says Chelsea’s Aggie Beever-Jones

    AGGIE BEEVER-JONES relished watching Chelsea stars, including England vice captain Millie Bright, training at Cobham during her Blues academy days.Playing in the Lionesses’ senior team is among the ambitions for the uncapped striker following her call-up to Sarina Wiegman’s squad.Aggie Beever-Jones has had positive discussions with England boss Sarina Wiegman in regard to her developmentCredit: GettyBeever-Jones and her team-mates have been training this week ahead of their Women’s Euros qualifier duels with FranceCredit: GettyBeever-Jones club captain Millie Bright is back in England’s camp for the first time since last OctoberCredit: GettyThe Blues starlet, who shone during Chelsea’s charge to a seventh Women’s Super League title, is ready to give if that dream comes true when England take on France this Friday.But she is also content to bide her time and focus on developing and under the guidance of Lionesses boss Sarina WiegmanBeever-Jones, 20, said: “It’s what dreams are made of as young kids, and I’m trying not to get too ahead of myself,”I’m just focusing on what I can control, and training well, and then we’ll see what happens. Read More Football Stories “But it’s definitely the dream, but we’ll just have to wait and see.”Obviously we just want to come away with the win, which is the main thing.”I was very fortunate enough to come through the Chelsea Academy.”I’d always go to Cobham and you’d see the first team training across the pitches and I’ve always thought I want that to be me. Most read in Football”I’d have chats with my Chelsea coaches back in the day who I still see now and it’s kind of full circle to see them.”I always said to them, ‘I want to be that one who takes that step and gets into the first team.” Like her pals Grace Clinton and Khiara Keating, who have made the leap from England Under-23s, Beever-Jones took the WSL by storm last term. The Surrey-born striker netted 11 goals in 17 top-flight games, including 11 appearances as a substitute, helping the Blues march to a fifth successive WSL title. The player’s efforts were rewarded with her being named in Wiegman’s squad before the Lionesses’ back-to-back Euros qualifier clashes with France on Friday and June 4.For Beever-Jones the call-up brought back memories of the ambitions she harboured as a player in the Lionesses youth sides. She adds: “I’ve always loved playing for England throughout the whole academy set-up.”I was originally in the Under-14s and to see the progress the game has made is obviously such a great feeling.“To be a part of that as well is a very good feeling. Playing for England is the dream.”The quality of the team is a joke and every single one of those players are world class players.”For me, I’ve had a few chats with Sarina at previous camps about where she’s seen me, the improvement she’s seen and what she wants me to work on.”And I think it’s just having that good communication and that foundation to build on.”I’ve had a few chats with her. They’ve been positive and we’re just ready to take the next step and hopefully I can help the team.”Aside from shining for her club, the England starlet also impressed for the young Lionesses last season. The team went unbeaten in an eight-game Under 23s European League between last September and this April. Among those Beever-Jones sees as key in helping pave the way for her current success for club and country is Emma Hayes. The striker made her senior Blues debut under the former Chelsea chief, who is now the USA’s women’s boss, during a 4-0 league match win against Aston Villa in January 2021. I owe a lot of my success to Emma (Hayes). I want to be able to show what I can do in high-pressure situations.Aggie Beever-JonesLast term saw Beever-Jones experience the highs and lows of the club’s battle to win a seventh WSL title. The league crown almost slipped from their grasp following a surprise 4-3 loss to Liverpool this month before Chelsea battled to an end-of-season triumph on goal difference.And she credits Hayes with helping to thrive in high pressure situations. The England starlet said: “I owe a lot of my success to Emma (Hayes).”What she’s done for the women’s game speaks for itself. “I remember she once said that for some people the weight of the (Chelsea) badge is too heavy.”I recall listening to that and I thought I want to be able to show what I can do in high-pressure situations.“I credit a lot of my success to the whole of Chelsea and bringing me up from a young kid, helping me develop and get the goals and help the team as best as I can. “For me, I’m always striving for more and the next thing.This Friday Wiegman’s Euros champs take on Les Bleues at St James’s Park before an away clash in Saint Etienne, France next Tuesday.Both teams are chasing automatic qualification for next year’s Euros with France currently top of their group in League A. And the sides that finish in the top two spots following the qualifiers will automatically claim a spot in next year’s tournament in Switzerland.Among the players who could feature against France on Friday is Beever-Jones’s club captain Bright.The Chelsea centre-back has returned to England’s squad for the first time since last October following a lengthy spell out with a knee injury.And Beever Jones sees Bright’s return to international duty as a big boost for England.The team’s match against France could potentially see Bright and Leah Williamson appear together for England for the first time since England’s 6-1 hammering of Belgium last February.Beever-Jones adds: “Millie is someone I’ve always looked up to and she’s such a great person before everything else that comes on the pitch.”And she’s looking after me here (with England) and making sure I’m working hard on the pitch.The Lionesses will be targeting a win against Herve Renard’s France when the teams play each other at St James’s ParkCredit: AFP”Especially with her injury in the past year I think it has been a really tough year for Millie.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Having her back in this squad and at Chelsea, everyone can see how much of a player she is and how she can help the team massively.”She’s just a great team-mate and a great footballer.” More

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    England Lionesses star hints at future career change as she shows off talent as a tattoo artist

    ENGLAND Lioness Georgia Stanway has hinted at a future career change after showing off her talent as a tattoo artist.The attacking midfielder, 25, is one of her country’s top stars.Georgia Stanway could have a future career as a tattoo artistThe England ace is an aspiring inkerCredit: RexShe was overjoyed to deliver her first tattoo to someoneStanway scored twice as England won Euro 2022 and also helped them reached last year’s World Cup final.Having starred for Blackburn Rovers and Manchester City, she now plies her trade for German giants Bayern Munich.Stanway has 14 goals in 51 games since joining them nearly two years ago.However, the fan favourite has indicated she could eventually make a career change.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAppearing on BBC Sport’s Out Of Office, budding tattoo artist Stanway was given the chance to do her first inking on another person.She was all smiles as she drew a broken vase on someone’s leg.And Stanway proved she has the skills to become a tattoo artist when she eventually gives up football.The ace revealed all on Instagram, captioning the snap: “Never have I experienced SO many emotions!”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERFans were certainly impressed by Stanway’s skills.One said: “So, when are you taking appointments?”Paula Raynor became England’s youngest goal scorer aged 15 in the 1971 Women’s World CupGeorge was praised online for her skillsShe drew a broken vase on the person’s legAnother declared: “If you need to practice I’m here.”One noted: “Is there anything you can’t do? Looks so good.”Another added: “Well done, looks amazing.”Georgia Stanway’s career statsThose numbers in full:

    Blackburn, 2014-2015: 6 games, 7 goals

    Man City, 2015-2022: 172 games, 59 goals

    Bayern Munich, 2022-2024: 61 games, 14 goals

    England, 2018-2024: 63 games, 17 goals

    Trophies: Super League, FA Cup x3, League Cup x3 (Man City); Bundesliga (Bayern Munich); Euro 2022, Finalissima, SheBelieves Cup, Arnold Clark Cup x2 (England) More

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    England Women’s star RETIRES from international football at 32 after 84 caps for the Lionesses

    ENGLAND star Rachel Daly has announced her retirement from international football.Daly, 32, made her final appearance for the Lionesses during Tuesday’s Euro 2025 qualifier against Ireland.Rachel Daly has announced her retirement from international footballCredit: GettyRachel Daly helped England to glory at Euro 2022Credit: GettyShe also played a crucial role in England’s journey to the World Cup finalCredit: ReutersShe was introduced as a substitute to replace Alessia Russo in the 86th minute of the match.Daly announced her decision to step down from the national team with a heartfelt statement on Wednesday morning.It read: “I would love nothing more than to play for England forever, but the time has come for me to hang my boots up on the international stage.”While today is an extremely difficult day for me, it is also one filled with reflection and immense gratitude. Playing for and representing England has been the greatest honour.Read More on Football”During my eight years as a Lioness, I’ve always pursued success and winning football matches, while playing and training with the highest standards of competition, passion and perseverance.”It has been the greatest honour to represent my family, my teammates and the entire country. I have a lot of incredible memories during my time with England that have been pivotal moments.”Winning the Euros and then reaching the World Cup Final changed a lot for me, not only as a footballer but as a person. I’m so fortunate that I’ve been able to share that with so many remarkable people throughout my journey.”I have made special friendships that will last a lifetime. I will be eternally grateful to have been given the opportunity to wear the England badge with immense pride over the past eight years.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”I am very fortunate to have played a small part in making history with the Lionesses and I feel now is the right time to pass on that baton to the next generation and be England’s number one fan from the stands!”I am excited to keep working hard at club level to reach new highs and spend some much needed quality time with my loved ones! Thank you.”Devastated Lionesses collapse in tears on the pitch as bid to make Women’s World Cup history falls agonisingly shortRachel Daly’s retirement statement in full

    “I would love nothing more than to play for England forever, but the time has come for me to hang my boots up on the international stage.
    “While today is an extremely difficult day for me, it is also one filled with reflection and immense gratitude. Playing for and representing England has been the greatest honour.
    “During my eight years as a Lioness, I’ve always pursued success and winning football matches, while playing and training with the highest standards of competition, passion and perseverance.
    “It has been the greatest honour to represent my family, my teammates and the entire country. I have a lot of incredible memories during my time with England that have been pivotal moments.
    “Winning the Euros and then reaching the World Cup Final changed a lot for me, not only as a footballer but as a person. I’m so fortunate that I’ve been able to share that with so many remarkable people throughout my journey.
    “I have made special friendships that will last a lifetime. I will be eternally grateful to have been given the opportunity to wear the England badge with immense pride over the past eight years.
    “I am very fortunate to have played a small part in making history with the Lionesses and I feel now is the right time to pass on that baton to the next generation and be England’s number one fan from the stands!
    “I am excited to keep working hard at club level to reach new highs and spend some much needed quality time with my loved ones! Thank you.”

    Daly has earned 84 England caps since her first senior call-up in 2016.She was also a part of the squad that won Euro 2022 at Wembley two years ago.And she remained a crucial member of Sarina Wiegman’s starting line-up throughout last summer’s World Cup, when the Lionesses narrowly missed out on the trophy following a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the final.Discussing Daly’s retirement, England manager Wiegman said: “Rachel has been an incredible part of our story and the history we’ve made together. It has been a privilege to work with her.”I have never worked with a player so versatile, always with a smile on her face, bringing energy and trying to do her best for the team.”Off the pitch she is always up for a joke or a nice conversation. She’ll be missed not just by me but all the other staff members, players and of course the fans.”It is sad that she won’t be with us anymore, but we should celebrate what she has done for the team and now she becomes our No.1 fan. I would love to see her in the stands in future cheering for us and helping us to get some more wins.”Despite retiring from international football, Daly is set to continue with Aston Villa.The striker, who can also play as a full-back, joined the Women’s Super League side from Houston Dash in 2022.She received the WSL Golden Boot at the end of the 2022-23 campaign and was named PFA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year.However, with Aston Villa struggling in the league, she has struggled to reach the same heights this season.READ MORE SUN STORIESDaly has also played for Leeds United, Lincoln Ladies, Los Angeles Strikers, LA Blues and SoCal FC.And she represented Team GB at the 2021 Olympic Games in Tokyo.Daly’s career honours
    Individual:

    NWSL Second XI (2018, 2021)
    NWSL Challenge Cup MVP (2020)
    NWSL Challenge Cup Best XI (2020)
    NWSL Challenge Cup Golden Boot (2020)
    PFA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year (2022-23)
    PFA WSL Team of the Year (2022-23)
    WSL Player of the Season (2022-23)
    WSL Golden Boot (2022-23)

    England:

    FIFA Women’s World Cup runner-up (2023)
    UEFA Women’s European Championship winner (2022)
    Women’s Finalissima winner (2023)
    She Believes Cup winner (2019)
    Arnold Clark Cup winner (2022, 2023) More

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    Leah Williamson looking forward to playing for England after ‘emotional’ return to Lionesses squad

    LEAH WILLIAMSON admits being back in England’s squad has been “emotional” with her return to national action drawing closer. On Tuesday, Williamson is due to make her international comeback when her team play the Republic of Ireland in the Euros qualifiers. Leah Williamson is set to captain England tomorrow in her first appearance for the Lionesses since last AprilCredit: PASarina Wiegman’s side will face the Republic of Ireland in their second game of the qualifiers for the 2025 EurosCredit: PAEileen Gleeson’s Republic of Ireland players are after their first win of the qualifiersCredit: SportsfileThe group stage clash between the Euros champs and Eileen Gleeson’s contest hopefuls will be Williamson’s first game in an England shirt since last April.  It comes almost a year after a knee ligament rupture on Arsenal duty led to the 43-capped Lioness missing last year’s World Cup.  Her last appearance for the Lionesses was on April 11th last year when Sarina Wiegman’s side fell to a 2-0 friendly loss to Australia. Five days before that game, Williamson led the Lionesses to victory against Brazil in the Women’s Finalissima.Read More Football StoriesWhile she was called up before England’s February friendly defeats of Austria and Italy, a hamstring issue forced her to withdraw from the squad. Williamson, who was on the bench for England’s Friday night draw against Sweden, said: “I’m an emotional person and you’ve all seen me cry on many occasions. “But it was emotional for me on Friday because if there’s a team that you want to play for in the world, I think the Lionesses will be up there. “I love playing for England. I don’t think I was a calming presence for anyone during the World Cup, especially. Most read in Football”But I’ve enjoyed watching the girls, I’ve enjoyed being a part of that journey and in a different way. “I’ve got people that play for the team who are very important to me.”But it’s been a difficult journey and I’d be lying if I said this wasn’t the thing that I sort of have my focus on. “This is where I wanted to get back to. I wanted to be good enough to get back into this squad.”Williamson, who made her senior England debut in a World Cup qualifier defeat of Russia in 2018, made history when she captained the side to Euros glory in 2022.Of the difference the centre-back could make to her team, Lionesses boss Wiegman said: “In possession, she’s just very bright. “She finds the right pass, the flexibility with the defence being able to defend the space behind her together with everyone else.”Defending doesn’t just start with one player, it starts with the team.”But that’s what I hope Leah will bring to the team.”England’s duel with their rivals at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium will see both teams chasing their first win in their quest to qualify for the Euros. Only the top two teams from their group are guaranteed automatic qualification with the third and fourth-placed sides entering play-offs. The Republic of Ireland, who competed in a Women’s World Cup for the first time ever last year, are currently bottom of group A3 in League One after their narrow 1-0 loss to France on FridayAnd Williamson expects the Lionesses will come a well-organised side on Tuesday.Of the challenge she expects England to face, Williamson added: “I’m expecting them to be really disciplined in the way that they defend.”We saw their result against France, so I think it’s going to be a test for us to move the ball and move them. “They’ve got key players up top but also a strong defensive line as well. “I know those girls really well so it’s going to it’s going be a good one.”Williamson and Lotte Wubben-Moy will be up against Arsenal team-mate and Republic of Ireland ace Katie McCabeCredit: GettyAmong the Republic of Ireland’s key players is Williamson’s Arsenal team-mate Katie McCabe.The versatile winger, made history last summer when she became the first player to score for her country at a Women’s World Cup during their group stage duel with Canada.On if she has had any contact with her Gunners team-mate before the game, Williamson said: “There’s been no contact. “She would know that there’s no communication this week. That’s not necessary.Of the threat McCabe poses to England, the Lioness captain adds: “Katie is a big personality, someone who is very proud of where she comes from.McCabe was part of the Rep. of Ireland side that lost 1-0 to France in their opening Euros qualifier gameCredit: Sportsfile”She has been authentic with that, with the fans so a lot of people connect to her in that way.READ MORE SUN STORIES”She knows her strengths and she has those strengths that can be game-changing as well.“And she is someone who has raised the profile of the game, her game, and subsequently Arsenal.” More

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    England’s Lauren Hemp ready for ‘tough and physical’ Euros qualifier challenge from the Republic of Ireland

    LAUREN HEMP is relishing a physical test against the Republic of Ireland after England’s tough Euros qualifier draw against Sweden.And the Lioness, 23, wants the European champs to strike fear in their rivals as they chase the first win of their push to play in next year’s contest.Lauren Hemp wants England to seal their first win in the qualifiers for the 2025 Women’s Euros following their 1-1 draw against SwedenCredit: GettyThe Lionesses are currently third in group one of League A after sharing the spoils with Sweden in their first game in the contest’s qualifiersCredit: AlamyThe Republic of Ireland will be England next opponents. The team fell to a narrow 1-0 home loss to FranceCredit: SportsfileHemp came close to scoring in the dying stages of England’s Wembley duel with Sweden.Their qualifier opener ended 1-1 after Fridolina Rolfo levelled in the second half following Alessia Russo’s headed first-half goal.The result leaves Sarina Wiegman’s side third in their group before their Tuesday night clash with the Republic of Ireland. Only the top two teams from the four groups of League A of the Euros qualifiers are guaranteed automatic qualification for the tournament Teams that finish outside those positions will battle for the 2025’s remaining places via play-offs against national teams from Leagues C and B. Ahead of the game at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium, 55-capped Hemp said: “We let it slip and we let Sweden score and it’s very annoying.“We had lots of chances that we couldn’t put away and could have been a bit tighter on the ball at times but it’s on to the next (match).“It’s going to be a very physical game (against the Republic of Ireland) but we’re all up for it.Most read in Football“We’ve all played in big games before and I’m excited to go there, I’ve not played there (at the Aviva) before.“It’s going to be a tough game, we know that, but we also know how good we are as a squad and we can take on anyone.”England’s score draw against Sweden included Arsenal’s Lotte Wubben-Moy making her first start under Wiegman in a Euros qualifier.And her club and country team-mate Leah Williamson, who skippered England to Euros glory two years ago, was named on the benchThe 13-capped centre-back, 25 said: “Sarina said, ‘Go out and enjoy it. You’ve earned it’.“That put a smile on my face because delayed gratification brings a lot of joy and I wouldn’t have wanted to get a start without it being justified.Of the 1-1 end to their duel with Sweden, Wubben-Moy added: “We’re quite disappointed in general because this is the first step in our qualification journey.“There’s a lot we can learn from this both personally but also collectively as a team.“We posed Sweden challenges and we’ve got to look at that and take the positives with that too.The Republic of Ireland whose stars include Arsenal’s Katie McCabe, fell to a narrow 1-0 loss to France.“The result leaves them bottom of what has been dubbed a group of death the qualifiers for a place in next year’s Euros in SwitzerlandAnd with England playing in the qualifiers for the first time as contest champions, Hemp hopes opponents will fear the threat posed by her team.The forward added: “We are European champions, and we want to keep that. Herve Renard’s France are currently top of group A1 in the Women’s Euros qualifiers following their win against the Republic of IrelandCredit: AFP”It’s important for us to win as many games as possible and get ourselves back in and amongst it.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s good to have teams come up and be like, ‘Oh my God, we’ve got England’, that’s what we want to be.“We want to be a hard-working team, hard to beat. I think it’s great having that.” More

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    Sarina Wiegman says Leah Williamson is in a “good place” with England ace closer to comeback

    SARINA WIEGMAN insists Leah Williamson is in a good place with the Arsenal star nearing her long-awaited England return.And the Lionesses boss confirmed the centre-back, 27, would captain her side should she feature against Sweden on Friday evening.Leah Williamson returned to full training with her England team-mates ahead of their Euros qualifier match against SwedenCredit: GettyWilliamson’s last appearance for England was in a 2-0 friendly loss to Australia last AprilCredit: PAEverton’s Hanna Bennison is among the WSL stars who could feature for Sweden when they take on the Lionesses at WembleyCredit: AlamyEngland will face the World Cup semi-finalists at Wembley in their Women’s Euros qualifying opener. The clash comes after 43-capped Williamson took part in a full-training session on Thursday after doing an individualised session on Tuesday.Wiegman said: “We needed to manage her a little bit. She had a full training session on Wednesday.”She’s still building but she’s in a good place and ready.”It’s really good that she’s back, first of all for herself, because she’s so excited to come back.”And that means she’s fit so it’s good to have another quality player in the squad.”Williamson, who last played for the Lionesses last April before being sidelined by a serious knee, is among eight England aces who played in the Conti Cup final on Sunday.The match saw Arsenal beat Chelsea 1-0 before ending with an angry exchange between Blues chief Emma Hayes and Gunners boss Jonas Eidevall.Most read in FootballA touchline spat occurred between the rival WSL bosses following a throw-in dispute involving Eidevall and Chelsea’s Erin Cuthbert. It was preceded by the Blues wanting to use a multi-ball system despite initially opting for a single ball usage.And it was followed by Hayes shoving the Gunners gaffer shortly after the final whistle. On Wednesday the FA confirmed they will not be taking action against either bosses with Hayes accusing Eidevall of “male aggression”.Wiegman, 54 said: “It (the Conti Cup) was a great final, very competitive, so that emotion goes up.”I haven’t been there in that situation so of course I do not want to comment on that one day before we go into our most important game.On if she has concerns about the touchline behaviour of managers, Wiegman added: “In general – not just in this specific situation but in general – we are an example as coaches for everyone who’s watching, but also in society. “We’re being watched a lot and it’s good to have good behaviours.”But I just don’t want to continue talking about this. We have such an important game.”We are playing Sweden and that’s what I want to focus on, that’s my main job right now.”England will be without the services of goalkeeper Khiara Keating with the Manchester City starlet, 19, withdrawing from the squad due to the knee.Keating’s departure has led to Wiegman calling up Southampton shot stopper Kayla Rendell.The Women’s Championship ace, who was voted Saints player of the season last term, has made four appearances for England’s Under-23s.And in a post shared via social media she described her first senior call-up as a “proud moment” for herself and her family.Following their friendly defeats of Austria and Italy in February, Wiegman wants England to lay down the gauntlet for their rivals in the Women’s Euros qualifiers.A clash with the Republic of Ireland in Dublin next Tuesday will following their duel with Sweden.And Wiegman insists her side have put the disappointing end to last year’s Women’s Nations League fixtures to bed.She said: “We’ve passed by that disappointment now because we went on a camp in February, and we played two games.”The team really showed this is who we are, this is how we want to play and really showed there was so much energy.Southampton goalkeeper Kayla Rendell has been drafted into Wiegman’s England squad following Khiara Keating’s withdrawal due to a knee problemCredit: Getty“But they were friendlies, although we didn’t really approach them as friendlies.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It gave us an opportunity to play many players, to see where we’re at as individuals but also as a team.”But now, it’s for qualifiers. So yes, it’s absolutely an opportunity for us to show again what we can do.” More

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    Jess Park hopes more ‘good things will come’ in her England career with Lioness eager to follow Sarina Wiegman’s advice

    JESS PARK aims to heed Sarina Wiegman’s advice and keep up her “hard work and consistency” on the pitch.And the England forward, 22, hopes to replicate the stunning form that boosted Manchester City’s charge to the top of the Women’s Super League.Jess Park, Lucy Bronze and their England team-mates will face at Sweden at Wembley on April 5 in their first Women’s Euros qualifier game this yearCredit: ReutersPark hopes to maintain consistency in her form with the versatile forward impressing for Man City this seasonCredit: GettyPark and Lauren Hemp are among six Man City aces in Sarina Wiegman”s 23-player squadCredit: GettyThe Lionesses’ Friday night Euros qualifier clash with Sweden at Wembley could see Park in international action. The game comes just under two weeks after her standout shift in the WSL Manchester derby.Park’s two goals and a classy assist for Man City striker Khadija Shaw earned the playmaker plaudits from pundits and match observers.Amongst the Etihad crowd watching the player and City and Man United’s England aces, was Lionesses boss Wiegman.Read More Football StoriesAnd the two-time Euros-winning head coach is encouraging the forward to keep the momentum going.Park, who helped City beat Brighton 4-1 on Saturday with the team going top of the WSL,  said: “Sarina just says keep up with the consistency, keep doing well and keep working hard and good things will come.“I managed to show that in that game in particular.“I’m working hard at club and waiting for the opportunity and when it comes, hopefully taking it.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERPark’s stock has risen considerably since her goal-scoring cameo for England on her senior international debut in November 2022.Following a call-up as a replacement for England heroine Fran Kirby, who was contending with a viral infection at the time, forward made a cameo appearance during a 4-0 trouncing of Japan.Mary Earps, Lauren Hemp and Millie Bright given gongs as sport & music stars celebrated in New Year’s Honours listBack then the Yorkshire-born WSL star, who was on loan at Everton, came on as an 89th minute substitute scoring a minute after her run out.Seven-capped Lioness Park is one of six City stars included in England’s squad for their April Euros qualifier games against Sweden this week and the Republic of Ireland on Tuesday.Lauren Hemp, Alex Greenwood, Chloe Kelly, Khiara Keating and Esme Morgan are the other City aces called up by Wiegman.And the forward feels having club colleagues in the camp could help with the continuity of her performance.She adds: “Me and Alex are quite close at club, so she helps me get involved here. “Hempo and Esme and the City girls really do help me when I’m away here, but all the girls (at international camp) are genuinely lovely.“They try and include me as much as possible. And I think that’s really important from them. And it’s really nice for me as well.“The girls are incredible girls, and they (all) make you feel comfortable as soon as you come into the environment, off pitch (and) on pitch.”Park’s progress this season follows a successful loan spell at Everton last term.It’s a move she credits with helping her become more “confident and capable” to play for City.The forward, who made 17 top-flight Toffees appearances helping Everton finish sixth, has since gone on to play in 14 WSL games for City this season. scoring three times.When asked which aspects of the game have improved the most since her return to City from Everton, Park said: “I think my game awareness off the ball and my confidence on the ball.“Going on loan last season really helped with that and being in and around squad has also helped, but I’d say they’re probably the main things.“It’s feels at the moment I’ve been very patient.“I went out on loan got some experience last year, came back and now finally getting an opportunity to show a bit more about me (as a player).”One player who Park credits as helping to influence her career and growth is former England captain Steph Houghton.Last month the veteran Man City centre-back, who made 121 Lionesses appearances, announced her plans to hang up her boots at the end of this season.With her retirement the Durham-born English football heroine, 35, will end a trophy-laden playing career in which she won 16 domestic trophies including 3 WSL titles and five FA Cups.Park said:  “I remember watching the (London 2012) Olympics and seeing her score a free-kick and I idolised that.“Being able to meet her, play with her and just actually get to know Steph as a person. Park paid tribute to Man City team-mate Steph Houghton with the former England skipper due to retire at the end of this seasonCredit: Getty”She’s an absolutely incredible person. The stuff she does on the pitch is obvious to everyone and it’s incredible.“But with the stuff away from the pitch and how she’s helped me and the advice she’s given me – she’s a top person.” Only the top two teams from England’s Euros qualifiers group will claim automatic qualification for next year Women’s European Championship taking place in Switzerland.The Lionesses, who won the Euros on home soil under Wiegman in 2022, will also France in addition to Sweden and Republic of Ireland in the battle to reach next year’s tournament.And the teams who finish outside the top two places in their group will have to battle it out in play-offs for a place in the contest.Tottenham’s Matilda Vinberg and Everton’s Hanna Bennison are among the WSL stars who could feature for Sweden when they take on England this monthCredit: GettyPark adds: “We all know it’s a difficult group. READ MORE SUN STORIES”There’s a range of teams and we are going to face different challenges with each and every one. “I think, just focusing on us and making sure we’re prepared and we’re ready is very important More

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    England football Wags to fork out eye-watering sum to hire private bodyguards for Euros after tournament terror threat

    ENGLAND’S Wags are planning to splash out £100,000 on private bodyguards for the Euros in Germany.The players’ partners want to axe the FA’s security team in favour of their own hand-picked heavies.England Wags, including Sasha Attwood, want to splash out £100,000 on private bodyguards for the Euros in GermanyCredit: GettyBukayo Saka’s partner Tolami Benson has also vowed to up their protectionCredit: World Cup News Pool (WCNP) – England vs SenegalThe group — led by footie tournament veterans Fern Maguire and Megan Pickford — intend to share the cost.Their decision comes after The Sun on Sunday revealed the threat of terror attacks at the Euros is feared by the German government to be high.The Wags, who will also include Jack Grealish’s girlfriend Sasha Attwood and Bukayo Saka’s partner Tolami Benson, have vowed to up their protection.They are set to hire ex-military specialists instead of FA-appointed guards.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSA source: said: “The FA security team looked after them at the World Cup in Qatar but this time they want to ramp up the security around them.“They are looking to hire ex-military trained to deal with all sorts of threats.“They’ll operate from a discreet distance so the group don’t draw too much attention. It means they can enjoy more freedom and feel safer at the same time.“Plus, they do not want that their every move is being monitored and then reported back to the FA.”Most read in FootballThe source added: “They’ve been quoted £65,000 for the first few weeks, which will go north of £100,000 if England go all the way.”It could set them on a collision course with Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate.UEFA Euro 2024: The glamorous life of WAGsHe wants to avoid a repeat of the 2006 World Cup in Germany when the Wags created more headlines off the pitch than the players did on it.Stories of the women partying and huge shopping bills were the talk of the tournament.But the latest crop have vowed to go their own way after lectures from the FA before the previous tournament in strict Muslim state Qatar.England, among the favourites to lift the trophy, kick off their Euros campaign against Serbia on June 16.Sasha Atwood is in a relationship with England winger Jack GrealishCredit: Tim Stewart More