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      EFL’s first ever female manager lasted just two weeks, but women will take charge sooner or later

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      NO ONE is suggesting that a woman should be appointed manager of Manchester United, or any other leading football club, right now.But it could happen when a candidate is so successful in the women’s game that her skills fit perfectly for the job.Karren Brady says female managers will be a thing in the futureCredit: PAHannah Dingley was briefly in charge of Forest Green RoversCredit: PAMale prejudice appears to be a football’s castle wall to us and I found that climbing it was a little tricky when I was appointed managing director of Birmingham City over 30 years ago.Cheeky players made comments at first and there was an incident of entry to “men only” boardrooms. Not any more. With the barriers breached, more women moved into executive positions. Now a mix of sexes is commonplace.But the possibility of a woman managing a Premier League or EFL team is still regarded by many men as an insult, a slap in the face with a wet apron.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLEmma Hayes capturing the Ballon d’Or this week for leading the USA to the Olympic gold medal reminds me that the day a woman leads a men’s team is closer than ever though.Hayes, at Chelsea, won the WSL title five times while Sarina  Wiegman, with England, won the Euros and finished World Cup runner-up.Similar triumphs in the men’s game would have won a knighthood.So why wouldn’t a club take on a manager with this record,  regardless of their gender?Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSI’ll tell you why. Because they are scared of being laughed at, or  assume men won’t listen to a woman. Forest Green Rovers briefly appointed Hannah Dingley as interim first-team coach last year.Amorim confirmed by Man Utd but it’s a huge gamble and delay to start is bizarreIt certainly wasn’t bigger news than Nancy Astor becoming the first woman to take her seat as an MP.And while Astor remained in Parliament for 26 years, Dingley lasted two weeks.It was still a tiny brick removed from the battlements but any pioneering woman will need the strongest support from her chairman and board.No player wants to work with a manager, female or male, who does not have tactical know-how, game strategy, leadership and decision-making skills, communication skills, modern training techniques, people skills, data analysis and a long-term vision.My guess is rebellion would evaporate as players realised the manager knew her business in all these areas.As for supporters, a few quick wins and they wouldn’t much care if Liz Truss were in charge.It will happen one day because women will make it do so. Astor has been the touchstone for 263 (40 per cent) of women to win seats in July’s election.There is no proof men are better team leaders or managers than women.Results in industry, education and politics are at least the equals of men and in school exams a good deal superior.READ MORE SUN STORIESSo, the day a woman leads a men’s team might be closer than ever.Until then, we’ll keep cheering as the women’s game grows — bringing the passion, skill and tactical brilliance the men’s leagues could learn a thing or two from.Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for. More

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      Arsenal face fixture chaos with ‘no obvious date’ to play crunch Carabao Cup quarter-final vs Crystal Palace

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      ARSENAL are facing a nightmare fixture pile up in December after being drawn against Crystal Palace in the League Cup.Mikel Arteta’s side progressed into the quarter-finals of the competition after beating Preston 3-0 on Wednesday.Arsenal have been left with a huge fixture headache in DecemberCredit: GettyThey are due to host Crystal Palace in the League Cup quarter-final but the two day turnaround for Palace could mean the game changes dateCredit: RexHowever, that is set to cause club chiefs a huge headache due to a major scheduling issue involving them and the women’s team.The Emirates tie against Crystal Palace is due to be played on either Tuesday 17 or Wednesday 18 in December.It came with Palace being due to play Brighton on Monday, December 16, though this fixture has since been moved to Sunday at 2pm with Bournemouth v West Ham now filling the Monday evening slot.Holding the clash on Wednesday is not possible due to Arsenal Women facing Bayern Munich in the Champions League at the Emirates.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLogically this would leave Thursday as the obvious solution.However, the two-day turnaround is far from ideal, with Palace due to host Arsenal on Saturday, December 21 in the evening clash, also leaving Friday out of the question.It would be possible to host the Palace game on Wednesday, December 18 if the women’s game could be moved.Arsenal Women play all of their European home games and eight of their 11 home games in the Women’s Super League at the Emirates, with tickets for the Bayern game on sale since September 28.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut Boreham Wood’s Meadow Park, where the women’s team used to play their home games, does not meet Uefa stadium regulations.However, one possible solution could be Arsenal agreeing to a stunning VENUE SWAP with Palace. ‘Watching Arsenal is like watching Netflix… you always have to wait for the next season’, says Man Utd legendThere has been a precedent in the League Cup this season to move fixtures to another stadium.Newcastle’s third round fixture with Wimbledon was switched from Plough Lane to St. James’ Park after floods caused a sinkhole to form in the middle of the pitch.Manchester City faced a similar problem to Arsenal earlier this season when they faced Watford in the third round.They were due to meet on the Wednesday, but local rivals Manchester United were already playing at home that night and the two teams can’t play at the same time.Pep Guardiola’s side were offered the chance to play away at Vicarage Road or switch dates to Tuesday or Thursday, which left them with less of a turnaround for either the League Cup game or Prem clash.They ultimately opted to play on the Tuesday just 48 hours after their 2-2 draw with Arsenal, and emerged with a 2-1 win over Watford at the Etihad.Speaking of the dilemma at the time, Guardiola said: “I prefer to play at home than go to London because this way our fans can watch this lovely, adorable team at home.“That’s why I decided to play on Tuesday. If we had said Thursday we wouldn’t have time to recover to go to Newcastle.“Hopefully we can select two teams and be fit and have no injuries but everyone knows the schedule will be tight this season.”On fixture congestion, he had previously said: “The week is seven days. We cannot create eight days a week or nine days a week.”It means the EFL could, based on precedent, offer Arteta’s side the chance to swap the venue of the League Cup clash from the Emirates to Selhurst Park to allow it to then be played on Wednesday and give Arsenal appropriate rest days between their league games.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe ultimate decision over the date of the game is in the hands of the EFL.It is understood the organisation are currently consulting all the relevant stakeholders on the timings and broadcast arrangements for each of the four quarter-finals.A Wednesday clash is not possible due to Arsenal women playing at the Emirates in the Champions LeagueCredit: AlamyArsenal ratings vs PrestonARSENAL cruised through their Carabao Cup tie at Preston.The Gunners won 3-0 to set up a home tie against Crystal Palace in the next round.Sun Sport’s Sam Dymond reveals who has done enough to feature in the quarter final – and who might be a bit worried.Tommy Setford – 6A clean sheet on debut for the teenager. After a quiet first half, he looked nervous when put under pressure by Preston’s forward.Jurrien Timber – 7Really looking the part in the Arsenal defence after injury. His crosses caused chaos before being replaced at half-timeWilliam Saliba – 7Settled back into the side after suspension, and was rarely troubled on a night where he continually swept up possession.Jakub Kiwior – 8Partnered Saliba admirably in defence, but showed his attacking worth by providing two assists.Oleksandr Zinchenko – 7A solid display before his removal on the hour, perhaps with one eye on the weekend.Jorginho – 7Kept things moving in midfield, and even showed off some sublime skill when the opportunity arose.Mikel Merino – 7A much more confident performance from the Spaniard following his goal on Sunday. Combined well with Martinelli and Nwaneri during the opening 45 minutes.Ethan Nwaneri – 9Serenaded by the Arsenal fans as ‘one of their own’, this talented teenager once again excited Gooners everywhere.The scorer of one sublime strike, he came so close to bagging a second goal too.Raheem Sterling – 7The Carabao Cup king did everything but score. Perhaps let down by his decision making, he’s looking more at home at Arsenal than he ever did at Chelsea.Gabriel Jesus – 8Constantly alive to the ball inside the box, he was rewarded with a first goal since January to get the scoring underway.Gabriel Martinelli – 8Often Arsenal’s biggest attacking threat with his direct running and ability to beat defenders. Replaced after taking a couple of heavy knocks.SubsThomas Partey – 6Replaced Timber at the break and once again did the job asked of him with few complaints.Kai Havertz – 8Scored a superb header shortly after his arrival as a half-time sub, and was an imposing figure in both penalty areas.Bukayo Saka – 6More minutes in the legs for the Arsenal star as he continues the recovery from his hamstring injury.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 6Misplaced a couple of passes after his introduction, but fits in well among the first-team squad.Ayden Heaven – 6Offered a glimpse of genuine pace as he made his senior debut for the final ten minutes. More

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      Football chiefs target second trophy triumph for Lionesses as part of new women’s game strategy

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      THE FA says a second major trophy win for the Lionesses is one of the top targets of its new women’s and girls’ game strategy. The four-year plan, announced today, comes just over two years on from England’s historic Euros triumph. The FA says helping England win a second major trophy as one of four strategic priorities in its new plans for the women’s gameCredit: ReutersFootball chiefs also hope help Lionesses youth teams succeed in international competition finalsCredit: GettyNext summer Sarina Wiegman’s players, who became the first England side to reach a Women’s World Cup final last year, will begin their quest to be crowned Euros champions once again. The Lionesses are one of nine sides who have automatically qualified for next year’s contest in Switzerland which starts on July 2. As part of its ‘Reaching Higher strategy’ the FA outlined achieving another major tournament triumph as one of four strategic priorities. Football chiefs also hope England can achieve World Cup glory in Brazil in 2027 after falling to a narrow 1-0 final loss to Spain in the last tournament in Australia last summer. Read More Football Stories And senior officials in the governing body insist meticulous preparations are being made to support the endeavours of Wiegman’s side. Kay Cossington, FA Women’s technical director said: “We talk about the top end of this. “We talk about how to look at the next four years for our senior team.”For 2025 with the Euros and for 2027 in preparation for the World Cup, our planning is absolutely meticulous.Most read in Football“It’s about understanding and recognising, for us in tournament football when we’re preparing for European Championships and World Cups, what’s really important. “What are the bits that we’re going to go after, and how do we effectively prepare putting 23 players in a squad in a tournament to perform.”That’s our job as a collective system. “How can we help players and staff to perform under the greatest amounts of pressure?”We have to be really, really clear and super explicit about what we do and what we don’t do, what’s going to make the boat go fast and what’s going to sink the boat, “Also the bits in between are what often cause the most amount of noise, the most amount of stress and sleepless nights.”The release of the FA’s new strategy comes hours ahead of the young Lionesses battling Spain for a place in semi-finals Women’s Under-17 World Cup in the Dominican Republic.The match is due to be streamed live on BBC iPlayer and Fifa+ from 10:45pm this evening. The winners of the clash, which commences at 11:00pm UK time, at the Felix Sanchez Stadium in Santo Domingo, will face North Korea this Sunday. And Cossington says the FA’s aim is to continue developing its “playing, coaching and operating curriculum” to support young players rising through the ranks to be able to perform on the biggest internationals stages. She adds: “Our blueprint for success is what we call a playing, coaching and operating curriculum on how we want to do things across all of our age groups. The FA says it wants to help prepare Lionesses coming through the ranks to be able to perform under pressure in a senior gameCredit: Getty”This is so that systematically, we are developing players’ readiness to be able to cope under the greatest amount of pressure in a senior team game.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Many of the senior Lionesses talk about the importance of tournament finals. “For the next four years for us, it’s important that we regularly get our teams to tournament finals.” More

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      Georgia Stanway wants England to take their game ‘to the next level’ following tough loss to Germany

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      GEORGIA STANWAY insists England need to step up their game following their heaviest loss under Sarina Wiegman.While the midfielder netted twice the Lionesses succumbed to a 4-3  friendly defeat to Germany on Friday, nine months before the 2025 Women’s Euros. Georgia Stanway believes tweaks may be needed for England following ahead of their upcoming friendly game against South AfricaCredit: PAThe Lioness midfielder netted two first-half goals during England’s 4-3 loss to Germany at WembleyCredit: AlamyThree of the goals conceded at Wembley during a tough opening 29 minutes were scored by two of Stanway’s Bayern team-mates – Guilia Gwinn and Klara Buhl.The clash ended with the reigning Euros champs, who face South Africa next, shipping four for the first time under Wiegman. It was also the first time England conceded four times at home since falling to a 6-4 defeat by Germany in Preston in 1997.Stanway, who scored a first-half brace, said: “My initial reaction was we just need to fix this and it doesn’t matter who was to score or what was going to happen.Read More Football Stories”Two Bayern girls had scored so I thought I needed to do something. “I need to fix something. I can’t have them bragging as soon as we get back to campus. “As soon as we got the penalty, we got the ball rolling and we were able to get some more chances. “It was a hectic game. Even coming in at half time with the score, it could have been 4-4.Most read in Football”Every nation is going to get better and better and having won the Euros, we’ve got a massive target on our backs.”England’s next friendly will be a duel with South Africa at Coventry’s CBS Arena on Tuesday evening. Their upcoming opponents suffered a hefty friendly loss on Friday, getting hammered 5-0 by Denmark. Stanway insists England have got things to learn ahead of the game against the 2022 Women’s Afcon champions. And Wiegman’s side will face far sterner tests when take on the USA and Switzerland on November 30 and December 3. The midfielder, who sealed a May 2022 Bayern switch from Man City, added: “We need to take our game to the next level and we can’t rest. “This international camp so far has been intense and the game itself (on Friday) was intense. “It showcases we’re not there yet and we’ve still got nine months (before the next Euros). England’s clash with South Africa on October will be followed by a friendly game against Emma Hayes’s USA stars on November 30Credit: Alamy”The main thing is that we’re trying to do the right things, but it’s not necessarily working.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Maybe it’s the little tweaks that are necessary, but we’ll review it. “We’ll have a few days to prepare for South Africa.” More

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      England Womens’ team backroom staff: Lionesses’ goalkeeping coach, head of medical & sports psychologist revealed

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      England Women’s national football team has a dedicated backroom staff that plays a crucial role in supporting the team’s success.Here’s everything you need to know about the team behind the team — the Lionesses go head-to-head with their vanquished foes Germany in a friendly on October 25, 2024.England are hoping to register a third match win against Germany under head coach Sarina WiegmanCredit: GettyThe backroom team represents a blend of experience and expertise across various aspects of football.They all work in collaboration to support the Lionesses’ success on the international stage.Arjan Veurink — Assistant CoachLionesses manager Sarina Wiegman with Arjan VeurinkCredit: GettyArjan Veurink serves as Serena Wiegman’s right-hand man.He joined the England setup alongside Wiegman, having previously worked with her at the Netherlands national team.More on the LionessesVeurink’s experience and tactical knowledge complement Wiegman’s leadership, forming a strong coaching partnership.He plays a key role in deciding tactics and was responsible for the Lionesses switching to a 3-4-1-2 formation during the Euro 2022 group stage.Geraint Twose — Assistant CoachEngland coach Geraint Twose pictured during a training session at The Lensbury Resort, Teddington on July 19, 2022Credit: PAGeraint Twose works alongside Weigman and Veurink as an assistant coach.His role involves working on specific aspects of players’ technical skills and contributing to overall tactical strategies.Most read in FootballHe worked with the England Men’s U15 side before taking the position with the Lionesses, having previously worked with the Cardiff City academy for 17 years.Darren Ward — Goalkeeping CoachDarren Ward with England’s Demi StokesCredit: GettyDarren Ward is the goalkeeping coach for the Lionesses.A former professional goalkeeper himself, Ward has an extensive background in developing goalkeeping talent.He was appointed when Wiegman took over as head coach in 2021. His experience includes working with elite players like Dean Henderson during his time at Sheffield United.Ward’s role focuses on enhancing the skills of goalkeepers including Mary Earps and Ellie Roebuck.He ensures they are match-ready and capable of performing under pressure.Ritan Mehta — Lead Team DoctorEngland Doctor Ritan Mehta looks on during a training session on October 8, 2022Credit: GettyDr Ritan Mehta serves as the lead team doctor for the Lionesses.He joined the FA in 2014 and has focused worked in football for the past 15 years altogether.His responsibilities include overseeing player health and managing injuries.Dr Metha ensures the overall medical well-being of the squad.Kate Hays — Lead PsychologistKate Hays helps the team with their stress, focus and mental resilienceCredit: X/DrKateHaysKate Hays is the lead psychologist for the England women’s team.Her role focuses on enhancing players’ mental resilience and performance under pressure.Hays employs various psychological techniques to help the team manage stress, build confidence and improve focus during matches.Anja van Ginhoven — General ManagerPrince William speaking with Sarina Wiegman and Anja Van Ginhoven (right) on June 15, 2022Credit: AFPWiegman regarded Anja Van Ginhoven as an essential addition to her staff when she moved from the Netherlands to England.Van Ginhoven previously served as a media officer for the Dutch Football Association.She played a significant role in selecting England’s base camp in Terrigal for the 2023 World Cup, ensuring that the team had access to top-notch facilities and an optimal location to compete effectively at the World Cup.Kay Cossington — Head of Women’s FootballLucy Bronze celebrating her 100th England appearance alongside Kay Cossington (left) and Sarina Wiegman on February 16, 2023Credit: GettyKay Cossington is the Head of Women’s Football at The FA and has been pivotal in shaping women’s football in England.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe joined The FA in 2005 and has been instrumental in implementing initiatives to revamp the girls’ talent pathway, making football more accessible while increasing participation rates among young female players.Cossington’s contributions have been recognised with an MBE for her services to association football in 2024, highlighting her significant impact on women’s football development in England. More

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      England boss Wiegman ready for a ‘physical and powerful test’ from Euros rivals Germany 

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      SARINA WIEGMAN wants England to avoid getting swept up in Euros glory nostalgia, when they face Germany for the first time since the 2022 final. This evening her Lionesses return to Wembley for a friendly against the side they beat to become European Champions. England hope to register a third match win against Germany under head coach Sarina WiegmanCredit: GettyThe Lionesses will play South Africa at the CBS Arena in their second friendly fixture this monthCredit: GettyBoth teams, who have qualified for next Euros and are ranked among the world’s top four sides, have undergone some changes since that 2-1 victory for Wiegman’s players. Aston Villa skipper Rachel Daly called time on her international career in April. The 84-capped Leeds-born striker, 32, who won the WSL’s Golden boot in the 2022-23 season, started in every single game for England at the last Euros. Meanwhile Martina Voss-Tecklenburg, 56, who guided Germany to the final, left her job as head coach by mutual consent last November. Read More Football StoriesHer departure followed their  shock exit from the Women’s World Cup group stage last July.The team will also be without the services of long-serving striker Alexandra Popp for tonight’s game which kicks off at 7:30pm,The prolific forward, who has scored 66 international goals, will play her 145th and final game for her country next month when they face Austria. And while Wiegman sees England’s Euros win against Voss-Tecklenburg’s former side as a moment to cherish, her sole focus is on preparation for next year’s contest. Most read in FootballThe Lionesses chief said: “It was one of the biggest moments of my career and of my life. We will always cherish that.”But moving forward it’s a totally different Germany team and we are a different team because we’ve moved on too. “It’s the start of [going into] the next Euros, next summer.”We always want to go faster but I think the game has increased, the level of the leagues in international football has increased and developed. “That’s what we want so that means we have to develop too.”England’s results have at times been mixed since reaching last year’s World Cup final in August where they were narrowly beaten 1-0 by Spain. Three of the six qualifiers that saw them secure their spot at next year’s Euros resulted in two draws and one defeat in addition to three wins. Wiegman expects to face a powerful and physical test from Germany who are now managed by head coach Christian Wuck. They have won four of their last six competitive games. She adds: “Germany have always been a powerful team, very physical and one that wants to play a possession game, but doesn’t hesitate to play long balls either”They have a new coach now, so they will probably do some other things too and that’s a challenge for us but a nice one.”Tonight’s game could see Wiegman contend with a central defender selection headache. While Leah Williamson missed Arsenal’s 2-0 defeat of West Ham last Sunday with her club wanting to manage her load, the England skipper is in the running to start for the Lionesses. Her fellow centre-backs Millie Bright, Alex Greenwood and Jesse Carter are all in solid form for their clubs Chelsea, Man City and Gotham FC.Wiegman said: “That is absolutely a headache because they’re all really good and really competing for minutes. “But these are absolutely the headaches I want to have and it’s a hard decision to make.”England’s first friendly fixture this season in the run-up to next year’s Euros follows a mixed start to the season for Williamson’s club side who are currently fifth in the WSL. The Gunners are currently on the hunt for a new women’s head coach following Jonas Eidevall resigning earlier this month. His departure followed the team picking up one win from their first four WSL games this term and suffering a 5-2 loss to Bayern Munich in their Champions League group stager opener And former Man City Women’s boss Nick Cushing has reportedly been linked with the vacant role. When ask if her confidence, ahead of England’s upcoming games, had been affected by Arsenal’s recent results, Lionesses skipper Williamson said: “There’s no difference in the confidence levels. “We are all footballers and deal with different scenarios. “Now we are here with England and it has been a consistent environment, at least for the last couple of years, so now we’re back and it’s nice.“It’s been a different start to the season. Leah Williamson insists her is on Euros preparationCredit: Getty“Results tell a story but I think (from) the work that I’ve seen going on, especially from my club and I can only speak for that. READ MORE SUN STORIES”But you can see again that the level of the whole world of football has gone up and everyone is enjoying that challenge.  “It’s a Euros year now. Everyone is focused.” More

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      Maya Le Tissier targets England squad spot ahead of Euros after ‘bittersweet’ World Cup experience

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      MAYA LE TISSIER has both bittersweet and happy memories of being on standby for Lionesses duty at last year’s World Cup in Australia. Now the WSL’s youngest centurion is determined to nail down an England squad spot at next year’s Euros. Maya Le Tissier hopes to feature for England when they play Germany in a friendly fixture on FridayCredit: GettyThe Lionesses’ duels with Germany and South Africa this month are part of their preparations for next year’s Euros in SwitzerlandCredit: GettyLe Tissier, who is Man United’s captain, has been capped four times to dateCredit: GettyA standout debut season at Manchester United, after a July 2022 move, resulted in Le Tissier joining Aston Villa’s Lucy Staniforth and Man City’s Jess Park on Sarina Wiegman’s standby list. The versatile defender, who joined from Brighton, helped United finish second in the league. While the WSL ace was not part of the 23-strong group that reached the World Cup final won by Spain, she played her part off the pitch helping team-mates prepare for the contest. Le Tissier, who has four caps, recalls: “When Sarina gave me the call to say I was on standby, it didn’t feel like it then but it was still a great achievement. Read More Football Stories”It was definitely difficult to take. It was bittersweet.”I loved Australia and being around the girls. They made it feel like I was part of the team. “I didn’t know what the vibe was going to be like to be there on standby, ready to go if someone got injured. “You don’t want anyone to get injured but you want to be at the World Cup, so it was really difficult. Most read in Football”Helping the girls prepare for a great tournament, I was really happy to play my part. “Hopefully next time I can play an even bigger part.”The next tournament opportunity for Le Tissier could come next July when England battle to retain their Euros crown following their 2022 triumph.Since their historic July 31 win against Germany, who they play on Friday at Wembley, Le Tissier’s career has gone from strength to strength. “I’ve been close but not in there so I would really like to cement my spot. That comes with performancesMaya Le TissierThe talented Guernsey-born defender, who was in the stands at the stadium watching Ella Toone score for the Lionesses that day, is now Man United’s captain. This follows establishing herself as a first-team regular and playing in all of the Red Devils’ top-flight games since joining the club. Le Tissier adds: “When Tooney scored that goal, I was like, ‘she’s going to be my team-mate!’”Toone always comes up in the big moments, you can always trust her. I was watching from the stands. It was really special.”Back in December 2018 Le Tissier made her Women’s Super League debut playing for Brighton against Chelsea. Back then the team were managed by former England boss Hope Powell. Last Saturday Le Tissier made her 100th WSL appearance when Marc Skinner’s United drew 1-1 with the Seagulls at the Amex. A result that left United third in the table before the international break and her old side sat fourth. Le Tissier said: “I actually didn’t even know that until after the game and then I saw a photo of me in a Brighton shirt and me in a United shirt. “I thought ‘that’s so weird that I’ve come back to the Amex and made my 100th appearance. “I feel very grateful to the coaches, to Hope (Powell), to Marc (Skinner). “They put their trust in me even when I was a kid and probably making too many mistakes. “But they trusted me to play in that position and to help the team. “I loved my time at Brighton and I love my time at United, it’s been really good for me so far. “There’s still a lot more I can bring and a lot more games for me to become a better player.”Having become a WSL centurion Le Tissier would love to do the same in an England shirt. The player who made her senior England debut in a friendly draw with Norway two years ago, last featured for the team in a Euros qualifier defeat of the Republic of Ireland in July.She hopes to get the chance to be part of the Lionesses squad battling for Euros glory in Switzerland next summer. Le Tissier adds: “Playing in a major tournament with England – that’s what we all dream of. “I’ve been so close, but still so far away and I definitely need to improve my game. “I will do everything I can this season to put myself there. Le Tissier hopes to experience playing in a major international tournament with some of her England team-mates who also play for Man UnitedCredit: Getty”It would be super special, especially if some of the United girls hopefully have a good season and get picked for England. READ MORE SUN STORIES”I’ve been close but not in there so I would really like to cement my spot. That comes with performances.”I’ve played a lot of games now, so I don’t think there’s even a question about experience. I can definitely bring that.” More

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      Inside the glam lives of England’s Lionesses, from trendy fashion photoshoots to walking red carpets and a dream wedding

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      THE success of the women’s game and the Lionesses has allowed these footballers to flourish away from the pitch.Leah Williamson, Mary Earps, Chloe Kelly, Ella Toone, Alessia Russo, and Lauren James have transcended the sport to become iconic pioneers.Lionesses captain Leah Williamson lives a glam lifestyle away from the pitchWilliamson is often joined by England teammates Mary Earps, left, and Chloe Kelly, right at fashion eventsAlessia Russo has also upped the glam stakes in the women’s gameEngland’s women’s winning Euro 2022 and reaching the World Cup 2023 final – catapulted them to fame, while inspiring the legions of young girls around the country wanting to follow in their footsteps.That rise means these girls are getting to live their best lives.From stylish photoshoots with fashion mags to exclusive red carpet invites, it could not get more glam.Leah WilliamsonLeah is one of football’s leading fashionistas.Read more football newsSince her heroics with the Three Lions, she has become a hot commodity reportedly raking in £4million.Her bank balance boosted by deals with Gucci, Nike and Pepsi.While the 27-year-old is also a regular feature on the red carpet, and attended the GQ Men of the Year Awards with pals Alex Scott, Chloe Kelly, and Mary Earps.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMagazines like Vogue, GQ and Elle have featured her in fancy fashion shoots.Most read in FootballWilliamson, who scored an OBE in the 2022 King’s New Year’s Honours list, also features heavily in Arsenal kit and fashion launches.When she’s not playing, she’s likely to be seen letting down her hair at a music festival, enjoying Glastonbury earlier this year.England’s Alessia Russo proves her pinpoint shooting accuracy transcends sports – by hitting a bullseyeLeah Williamson celebrates receiving an OBE in 2022Credit: GettyWilliamson let her hair down in the summer at GlastonburyArsenal star Williamson also made time for a luxurious holiday with her palsChloe KellyEqually, Chloe – who famously scored the winning goal in the Euro 2022 final – also appears on the celebrity party circuit.Last year, she attended the Glamour Women of the Year Awards where she dazzled in a risqué black dress.She posed for pictures with Spice Girl Geri Horner, and was joined by Jess Carter, Bethany England, and Alessia Russo.Before the World Cup, the blonde beauty, 26, stripped down for an artsy black and white for a Calvin Klein photoshoot.Chloe modelled Calvin Kleins’ famous cotton underwear, as well as their essential baggy jeans style.Back in August, she married her boyfriend of five years – Scott Moore – in a glittering ceremony at Merrydale Manor in Cheshire.The event was hosted by British Vogue and was some spectacle.Chloe Kelly regularly shows off her amazing bikini body on social media on luxury breaks awayCredit: instagram @chloekellyCalvin Klein signed Kelly up for a fancy photoshoot before the World CupIn the summer, Man City’s Kelly married longterm partner Scott Moore at a lavish ceremony in CheshireMary EarpsSince moving to PSG, the queen of TikTok is enjoying a new city.Earps still poses hilarious videos online, including getting to grips with driving in Paris as she settles in in the French capital.Shortly before she inked her deal with the club, she enjoyed a day at Silverstone where she was invited by McLaren for the British Grand Prix.The 31-year-old goalie, who wore a dress created by a designer who works with Beyonce and Rita Ora, also made time for a stunning holiday in Ibiza to recharge her batteries.Back in February, the BBC SPOTY winner upped her game – appearing in a gorgeous photoshoot for Women’s Health UK.She also became the new face of Victoria’s Secret – designing a range that includes “ultra-comfy and supportive styles, super soft materials and understated designs” to promote self-love and women empowerment.Last year, Earps was crowned as the BBC Sports Personality of the YearCredit: PAEarps recently became the face of Victoria’s SecretLionesses goalie Earps also glammed up for a photoshoot with Women’s HealthEarps was a guest of McLaren at the Silverstone Grand Prix this yearAlessia RussoRusso, who last month appeared at London Fashion Week, is believed to be the first woman in the WSL to earn more than £1million-per-year.She has done that through sponsorships, including with Adidas, Gucci, PlayStation, Oakley, and Beats by Dre.With celeb fans such as David Beckham — and his daughter Harper — she is already such a national treasure that her boots have been displayed in the Tower of London.She has amassed over 850,000 followers on Instagram, where she gives fans a glimpse into her epic lifestyle.Russo, 25, shares pics of her amazing fashion sense, including glam photoshoots showing off collaborations with Adidas and Gucci, as well as a pair of Paul Smith/Stan Smith trainers she’s seen clutching tightly and smiling.In the summer, she and Ella Toone went partying at the Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel.They also rented a boat for the day and topped up their tans.Last year, Russo appeared at the Fifa Football Awards and dazzled in a David Kona dress, matched with Louboutins and expensive De Beers jewellery. She screams star power.Fashionista Alessia Russo shows off the Adidas x Gucci collaboration in a fancy shootRusso starred at London Fashion Week last month at the JW Anderson showOakley sunglasses are one of many sponsors Russo boastsRusso was a guest at Wimbledon this summer with pal Williamsonread more sport featuresElla TooneRusso’s best mate, Toone – the Man Utd star is equally up for a good laugh.She is the Arsenal forward’s partner in crime, they regularly travel together during preseason break, and have their own podcast.Like her Lionesses teammates, Ella also makes a few quid from paid partnerships on Instagram.Back in June, she shared her skincare routine using Charlotte Tilbury products.Toone, 25, is also in a romance with fellow footballer Joe Bunney, who plays for Stalybridge Celtic.They reportedly met through mutual pals, and were spotted enjoying a romantic break away in Ibiza shortly after she tasted success at Wembley.Back in March, they took some time out to enjoy the five-star Carden Hotel & Spa in Cheshire.Toone posted pics of the pair enjoying the hot tub and keeping warm round a fire pit in their robes.Ella Toone and Russo are best pals and have a podcast togetherToone features in a paid partnership testing Charlotte Tilbury make-upEngland’s Toone is in a romance with fellow footballer Joe BunneyLast summer, Toone and Russo enjoyed Vip treatment at Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach HotelLauren JamesJames, 23, is already one of the hottest commodities in the women’s game.The Chelsea forward has football connections, with her brother Reece captaining the Blues’ men’s team.Independently, she has scored off the pitch – earning sponsors including  Nike, Google Pixel, Optimum Nutrition, Barclays, and Sure.It is believed she has a net worth over £1million, despite her tender years.She has over 870,000 followers on Instagram, where she shares snippets of family life.James is also quite the hipster, mixing streetwear and sporty attire – wearing brands like Justin Bieber’s Drew House, Supreme, and Adidas.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe also teamed up with Spotify, revealing her diverse playlist.In an ad, she revealed: “I could go from Afrobeats to… next one could be a country song.”Lauren James is one of the hottest commodities in football right nowHer brother is Chelsea captain Reece JamesJames boasts her own unique fashion styleLast month, James was seen wearing Justin Bieber’s brand Drew House More