Women’s Super League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 200 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Bethany England and Beth Mead ‘disgusted’ by non-league club’s choice to axe women’s and girls’ teams

      by

      BETHANY ENGLAND and Beth Mead have slammed a non-league club’s move to scrap their women’s and girls’ football sides. The Yorkshire-born Lionesses and Aston Villa’s Maz Pacheco and Kirsty Hanson criticised Thornaby FC for pulling their support of all six teams.Thornaby FC Women say more than 100 players have been left without teams to play for following their club’s decision to close their women’s and girls teamsBethany says she is saddened by the decision taken by Thornaby FC following a club commitee voteCredit: AlamyBeth Mead says Thornaby FC Women players deserve to be treated betterCredit: GettyYesterday Thornaby FC Women revealed their club’s committee had voted on to axe its “entire female section” on Saturday. Teams include girls sides aged from under-seven up to under-15 with more than 100 girls and women said to have been left without a club to play for.In a comment published via the social media platform X, Thornaby FC Women stated they are “devastated” by the move.Of the North Yorkshire club’s decision, they wrote: “This leaves over 100 girls without a club. Read More Football Stories “We would like to thank all of our coaches, volunteers, players, supporters and sponsors for their dedication over the last 3 years. You are all amazing.”  The move made by the committee has come in for criticism from players, fans and followers of the women’s game who publicly shared their concerns.England, who began her football journey at Barnsley-based grassroots side Junior Tykes FC, stated she was “saddened and disgusted”.In a tweet, the Lioness striker and Tottenham skipper, 30, added: “The fight for women to keep their place at the table is a never ending battle.Most read in Football”This should not be happening, these women and girls deserve better! “My thoughts go out to everyone involved at the club, players, staff and volunteers.”England’s national team-mate Mead, 29, who was born and brought up in North Yorkshire, said she was disgusted by Thornaby FC’s moveIn a post via X, the Arsenal ace and 57-capped Lioness wrote: “Disgusted to see this decision, the women’s game is on the up but we still have committees making these horrible decisions.”It’s not good enough, these young girls deserve better.”Villa forward Hanson, 26, who was born in Halifax, said she is “gutted” for the girls involved with Thornaby FC Women, who can no longer play for their teams.Her Villans team-mate Pacheco, 25, described the club’s committee’s decision as one that had “blown her mind”Thornaby FC first-team manager Abbey Lyle told BBC Sport there had been “had been an outpouring of support for the women and girls following the announcement, with sponsorship and new clubs offered”.In a statement club chairman Garry Morris revealed he voted against the committee’s decision and made his views known to its other membersIn a statement published via the club’s Facebook page, Mr Morris wrote: “The decision to withdraw support for the women’s team is one that I do not agree with. “And along with another member of the committee, voted against it at an emergency meeting.”I have made my feelings known to the board, have asked them to reconsider their decision, and also to consider their positions on the board as patrons and trustees of the football club.Kirsty Hanson believes Thornaby FC’s decision shows that women’s sport and football is “not seen as a priority for some”Credit: Getty”We are empowered by the fans of the club to make the right decisions for the future of the club.READ MORE SUN STORIES”All those who show their unwavering support to both the male and female teams of all age groups deserve better.”I firmly believe this decision does not do that, and will be making this clear to the remaining members of the board.” More

    • 188 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Spurs release seven players from their WSL side including their former skipper Shelina Zadorsky

      by

      TOTTENHAM could be set for a busy summer transfer window after the departure of seven players from their WSL side today.Shelina Zadorsky, 31, is among those leaving the club before her national side Canada compete at the Paris games in July.Shelina Zadorsky is among seven players leaving Tottenham’s Women’s Super League side this monthCredit: GettyZadorsky’s departure comes two days on from her making her 100th senior international appearance for CanadaCredit: AlamyMidfielder Ramona Petzelberger is also leaving Tottenham this monthCredit: GettyThe Olympic gold medal-winning centre-back’s exit comes two days after her player-of-the-match performance in Canada’s 1-1 draw with Mexico.The fixture was the team’s final friendly home game before the July start of the Paris Olympics.Zadorsky’s departure, after three years and 73 appearances at Spurs, follows her spending the second half of last season on loan at West Ham who finished one place above the drop zone.Other players leaving include Nottinghamshire-born forward Ellie Brazil.Read More Football StoriesThe former Brighton player, 25, who ruptured a knee ligament two months into her Tottenham spell, made nine appearances across two seasons after joining from Albion in July 2022.New Zealand midfielder Ria Percival and Ramona Petzelberger are also among the senior squad members leaving Robert Vilahamn’s team.Percival, who spent the second part of last term on loan at Crystal Palace, spent five years with Tottenham prior to her departure making 70 appearances.Asmita Ale has left Tottenham following a half-season loan spell at Leicester this yearCredit: GettyAnd Petzelberger, who joined from Spurs from Aston Villa in the summer of 2022, played in 17 games during her two years at the club.Most read in FootballOther players who will Tottenham this summer are forward Nikola Karczewska, defender Gracie Pearse and full-back Asmita Ale.Ale, 22, whose exit follows a half-season loan stint at Leicester, was part of the young Lionesses squad who went unbeaten in the European Under-23s League. More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      France 1 England 2: Alessia Russo goal seals vital win as Lionesses keep automatic Euros spot hopes alive

      by

      ALESSIA RUSSO reckons the battle to reach the Euros will be harder than ever after England’s first win against France on French soil in 51 years.The striker netted the winner as the Lionesses came away with a 2-1 Euros qualifier victory on Tuesday evening. Alessia Russo caused problems for France’s defence with her first-half header giving England a 2-0 leadCredit: GettyThe Lionesses weathered late pressure from France but held out to seal an important 2-1 victory in their fourth group stage Euros qualifier gameCredit: GettyGeorgia Stanway gave the visitors a 1-0 lead early on with the Lionesses dominating the first half at the Geoffroy Guichard Stadium in Saint-EtienneCredit: GettyDespite their foes’ late fightback the visitors held out to claim an official triumph over Les Bleues on their turf for the first time in 1973.The group stage game in Saint-Etienne resulted in France losing a tournament qualifier fixture for the first time in 17 years.  It also saw Sarina Wiegman’s side boost their chance of reaching next year’s Euros automatically with her third-placed side level on points with Sweden who are second.Only the sides who finish in their group’s top two spots can claim a place in next year’s contest in Switzerland without having to compete in play-offs.Read More Football StoriesFollowing the win, Russo told ITV Sport: “I think we got our standards back to where we wanted them.”There are still parts we will work on for sure. “We know the level is higher than ever and to even qualify for the Euros is going to be harder than ever.”Russo’s first-half goal, her 19th in a senior England game, topped off a storming start for the reigning Euros champs as they ran their hosts ragged early on.Most read in FootballAlong with Beth Mead and Lauren Hemp, with Ella Toone and Georgia Stanway starting well in midfield, Russo helped the Lionesses dominate for the first 45 minutes.When asked if this was her best England performance, the striker added: “I’ll have a look back after.Uefa chief slammed for warning England Lionesses manager Sarina Wiegman her trophy is ‘heavy’-“When you’re in the moment you are so focused on the game. I just tried to do what I could.”France are a top side with some of the best centre-backs in the world. “It was nice to get on the scoresheet but we created a lot of better.”England’s gritty performance saw Wiegman rewarded for her decision to stick with the finishing line-up that lost 2-1 to France at St James’s Park last Friday.After Sweden clinched a 1-0 away win against the Republic of Ireland earlier this evening, without injured shot stopper Mary Earps, had it all to do.But after an early Toone effort on her 50th England appearance was easily claimed by France goalkeeper Pauline Peyraud-Magnin, the visitors took control of the first half.Stanway fired them in front with a bullet strike from the edge of the box in the 21st minute after a nifty interchange involving Russo and Lauren Hemp.And Russo piled on the pressure with the hosts left stunned as she headed home for a 2-0 34th-minute lead.France boss Herve Renard made some second-half changes with Delphine Cascarino and Sandie Toletti replacing Amandine Henry and Sakina Karchoui.Late pressure saw them win a spot-kick after Leah Williamson caught Grace Geyoro’s ankle in the penalty.Kadidiatou Diani pulled a goal back for France from the penalty spot late on in the gameCredit: GettyToone and Lucy Bronze were booked seconds later for dissent before Kadidiatou Diani netted in the 72nd minute on her 100th France appearance.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut England held on to claim the win and stay level on points with second-placed Sweden. Wiegman’s side will face the Swedes and the Republic of Ireland in their final two Euros qualifier duels in July. More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Who is Karen Carney and what position will the England pundit and former Lioness play in Soccer Aid 2024?

      by

      FORMER Lioness Karen Carney is putting her football boots back on to take part in a huge charity match.Find out more about her career ahead of her taking part in Soccer Aid 2024 alongside a host of former pro-footballers and celebs.Karen Carney is a former England footballer – Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty ImagesWho is Karen Carney? Karen was born August 1st, 1987, to parents Michael and Marie in Solihull, England.She is a sports journalist and former professional footballer.As a child she was often out playing with her friends, leading to her interest in sports.Karen can remember playing football at the age of six but it wasn’t until she was 11 that her Mum saw her play for the first time.Read More on soccer aidBy the time she was 14, she was playing football full time.At the age of 16, she decided to move in order to focus on football. She was named in the 2017 New Year Honours List and received the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her services to football.She was later inducted into the National Football Museum Hall of Fame in 2021.Most read in FootballIn the autumn of 2022, Karen was announced as the Chair of the Future of Women’s Football Review for the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.Her role includes looking into ways that the UK Government can nurture and expand the game.Amazon pundit Karen Carney claims Leeds were only promoted because of Covid When did Karen Carney retire from women’s football?Karen is one of England’s most capped players of all time and achieved success playing for three different clubs.She retired in 2019 after England finished fourth during the Women’s World Cup. Over her career, Karen has earned 144 caps for England and scored 32 times.Karen Carney celebrates scoring the winning goal against Finland during the Women’s UEFA European Championship 2005 – Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty ImagesShe debuted at senior level when she was 14.In 2005, she won the FA’s Young Player of the Year Award a year before she turned 18.In 2005, she made her senior debut for England at 17 when they played against Italy.Only four months later, she secured victory for England against Finland during the opening game for the European Championships.In 2006, Karen was signed to Arsenal.She enjoyed success at Arsenal but later transferred to the Chicago Red Stars before she returned to Birmingham City in 2011.At Wembley that season, Carney put in a “woman of the match” performance against Chelsea that saw her score the winning spot-kick to secure Birmingham’s first FA Women’s Cup triumph.She also represented Team GB at the London 2012 Olympic Games.Karen transferred to Chelsea in 2015 after topping the league’s scoring charts in 2014.She also won more honours with Chelsea including a Spring Series, league title and FA Cup.After retiring, Karen pursued a career in broadcasting.She worked with the BBC and BT, covering all football for their platforms.What position will Karen Carney play in Soccer Aid 2024?Karen Carney will be joining a host of famous names taking part in Soccer Aid 2024.So excited for this one! 🙌 Soccer Aid for UNICEF is back at Stamford Bridge and so am I! 💪 It’s on Sunday 9 June – get your tickets today! 🎟Karen Carneyon InstagramShe’ll be joining the England side, hoping to turn around the side’s fortunes after a disappointing run of results.The World XI side has won the last five years.Soccer Aid line-up 2024Fans can’t wait for soccer aid to kick off on Sunday, June 9, 2024.
      Throughout her professional football career, Karen played as a winger and a midfielder.She’s expected to return to the midfield for the 2024 charity clash.How to watch Soccer Aid 2024Hosts Dermot O’Leary and Alex Scott will be introducing the 2024 match live on ITV1, ITVX and STV.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt takes place on Sunday, June 9th 2024.The build-up to the game starts at 6pm, with the kick-off expected at 7.30pm. More

    • 188 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Mary Earps forced to withdraw from England’s squad before return Euros qualifier duel with France

      by

      ENGLAND have been dealt an injury blow with Mary Earps withdrawing from their squad before their return Euros qualifier with France.The Lionesses goalkeeper, 31, hobbled off during her team’s 2-1 Friday night loss to Les Bleues.Mary Earps has withdrawn from England’s squad after sustaining a hip injury during England’s narrow loss to France in the Women’s Euros qualifiersCredit: AFPThe Lionesses No1 attempted to carry on playing after receiving treatment at St James’ Park but went off injured in the eighth minuteCredit: ReutersThe FA say Earps’s hip injury is a minor oneCredit: PAOn Sunday, the FA confirmed the England No1 sustained a minor hip injury during the clash at St James’ Park.Her team will be without their first choice goalkeeper when they face France away in Saint-Etienne on Tuesday with both sides battling for an automatic spot at next year’s tournament.The FA say Birmingham City shot stopper Lucy Thomas, who had been on the squad’s standby list, has now joined Sarina Wiegman’s group.Earps, who was making her 50th senior England appearance in the game in Newcastle, appeared to strain her hip whilst making pass to Millie Bright.Read More Football StoriesDespite attempting to soldier on, the Lioness No1 had to come off in the eighth minute and was replaced by Chelsea keeper Hannah Hampton.The Manchester United ace, who played in all six games during England’s 2022 Euros triumph, was spotted on crutches after the final whistle of their narrow loss Friday.The defeat saw her side drop to third spot in their qualifiers group with France currently top and Sweden in second place.Only the top two sides from their group guaranteed automatic qualification for next year’s Euros in Switzerland.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSWiegman’s side will hope to beat France when they go to battle with Herve Renard’s side at Geoffroy-Guichard Stadium on Tuesday. And Earps’ Lionesses team-mate Ella Toone has backed the side to bounce back when they face Les Bleues.England Lionesses star hints at future career change as she shows off talent as a tattoo artist Toone, has 49 England caps, said: “We’ve got an experienced bunch of players in that changing room, players who have played in massive games.”I’m sure that we can go out there with the same mindset that we always have, and that’s to win the game.”We’ve got to make sure that we recover really well to go into that game one hundred per cent.”Right now it hurts a little bit but we’ve got a few more days until we go again, which is nice, because we can always rectify what we didn’t do.”Ella Toone believes England can bounce from their loss and beat France on their turf in the Euros qualifiersCredit: Getty More

    • 163 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      England to face France without Lauren James following the Lioness forward’s foot injury

      by

      SARINA WIEGMAN and England have been dealt a fitness blow with Lauren James’s withdrawal from the camp due to a foot problem.The Lioness forward, 22, will miss the team’s double-header Women’s Euros qualifier clash with France tonight and on Tuesday.Lauren James has withdrawn from England’s camp with a foot injury ahead of the team’s Euros qualifier duels with FranceCredit: GettyThe Lioness forward hopes to return to fitness ahead of England’s Women’s Euros qualifier clashes with the Republic of Ireland and Sweden in JulyCredit: GettyTottenham forward Jessica Naz has been included in England’s squad following James’s withdrawalCredit: PAJames, who helped Chelsea win a fifth successive WSL title, had joined her England team-mates for training this week and hoped to get back to fitness. However the 24-capped forward, was unable to overcome her foot injury. England chief Wiegman said: “Lauren James didn’t make it, so she’s not selected. “She already had some foot problems at her club, so she came in and we hoped that we could build, but it’s just too early, so unfortunately she can’t stay with us.READ MORE FOOTBALL STORIES“For Lauren and for the team it’s unfortunate.”James’s withdrawal has led to Tottenham’s Jess Naz, 23, being added to the squad ahead of the Lionesses duel with Les Bleues at St James’s Park tonight.The Spurs forward has been on England’s squad standby list along with Birmingham goalkeeper Lucy Thomas and Liverpool midfielder Missy Bo Kearns.Wiegman added: “Jess Naz will be added to the group. She’s ready and she’s shown good stuff this week in training and with her club.”Most read in FootballFollowing their clash with France tonight and next Tuesday, England take on the Republic of Ireland on July 12 at Carrow Road. The reigning Women’s Euros champions will then play Sweden in Gothenburg four days later.And it is hoped James will return to fitness in time for those fixtures.Wiegman added: “Of course it’s a disappointment. We did everything, she did everything, and it’s just too early now. .”She’s going to get prepared for the July window.”Prior to the Lionesses’ duels’ with France James’ has been backing a campaign to tackle social media abuse directed at female athletes.The Pep Talks drive was launched this month by Women’s Champions League sponsors Visa, The campaign has been looking at how positive messages of support for sportswomen help reduce the impact of online hate.The finance firm says nearly one in ten online comments shared during last year’s Women’s World Cup were found to be hateful.The findings were based on their analysis of posts on the social media platform X published in last July and August. Posts that included mentions women’s national team players in England, France and Spain.James, who in the past has been targeted by online trolls, has shared her thoughts on the issue as part of Visa’s Pep Talks campaign.The Lioness ace says being on the receiving end of hateful messages online can be “mentally draining”.However the forward has vowed not to let trolls affect her performances. The Chelsea star, who has won three WSL title’s with the Blues, said: “Unfortunately, online negativity happens to me quite regularly.“When it does happen, I just try to filter out what I see. James’s team-mates will play France for the first time under Sarina Wiegman when they host Les Bleues at St James’s ParkCredit: PA”There is a lot of negativity in what people post on social, the remarks they make or statements they put out. It can be very hurtful.READ MORE SUN STORIES”But, for me, it’s the messages of positivity online or from the people around me that will always shine through and rise above the hate. “It’s never unnoticed and always appreciated.” More

    • 213 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Alex Scott looks sensational at Women’s Football Awards alonside England stars, Tara Kirk and Michael Owen’s daughter

      by

      ALEX SCOTT was one of the many football stars to stun at the Women’s Football Awards.The 2024 ceremony is being held at London’s Marriott Hotel in Mayfair.Alex Scott arrived at the Women’s Football AwardsCredit: GettySteph Houghton also attended the eventCredit: GettyPeterborough Women’s Tara Kirk wore a stunning dressCredit: PAEkin-Su was a representative from Love IslandCredit: GettyScott, 39, led the way on the carpet as she wore a classy black dress and gold jewellery.She is shortlisted for the Women’s Football Broadcaster or Journalist of the Year Award.She is up against the likes of Laura Woods, Kate Abdo and Rachel Brown-Finnis.Last year she won the Sport Award at the Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThere was plenty more Women’s football royalty at the event as former Lionesses captain Steph Houghton made an appearance.The recently retired star earned 121 caps for England during her career.She also opted for a black dress like Scott’s but in a different style.Peterborough striker Tara Kirk and ex-Tottenham star Jermaine Jenas were also snapped at the ceremony.Most read in FootballEni Aluko and Jamie Carragher were pictured on the carpet.The pair are hosting the awards night together.Alex Scott looks stunning in bold see-through outfitEni Aluko and Jermaine Jenas were all smiles on the carperCredit: RexJamie Carragher is Aluko’s co-host for the award showCredit: RexWomen’s Football Broadcaster or Journalist of the Year

      The full list of nominees…

      Rachel Brown-Finnis
      Lucy Ward
      Laura Woods
      Kate Abdo
      Charlotte Harpur
      Alex Scott 
      Reshmin Chowdhury
      Emma Jones
      Lianne Sanderson
      Sirayah Shira

      Aluko said: “We’re incredibly excited for it.”The success of the Lionesses in recent years has opened up the game in hugely positive ways to a new generation of fans. It is amazing to see the sport growing.”The Women’s Football Awards is all about celebrating and elevating women’s football at every level.”Pop star Pixie Lott also stunned on the carpet in a shiny dress.She is the headline act at the awards show and has been looking forward to performing.She said: “It is going to be a truly special evening and I feel privileged to be involved.”Michael Owen’s stunning daughter and Love Island star Gemma Owen also appeared on the carpet.She was not the only reality TV star as Ekin-Su Culculoglu also made an entrance to the ceremony.Dame Kelly Holmes was also seen on the carpet in a cool black outfit.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe award ceremony will also reveal the Women’s Player of the Year.The likes of Mary Earps, Sam Kerr, Lauren James and Katie McCabe are among the nominees.Gemma Owen stunned in a long dressCredit: RexPixie Lott is headlining the eventCredit: GettyDame Kelly Holmes also made an appearanceCredit: GettyPlayer of the Year nominees

      The stars battling it out for this year’s prize…

      Mary Earps (Manchester United)
      Sam Kerr (Chelsea)
      Lauren James (Chelsea)
      Katie McCabe (Arsenal)
      Millie Bright (Chelsea)
      Frida Maanum (Arsenal)
      Jess Carter (Chelsea)
      Nikita Parris (Manchester United)
      Bunny Shaw (Manchester City)
      Guro Reiten (Chelsea) More

    • 225 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

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

      by

      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