Why it's not all-white for women

Footballer says change of shorts takes away worry for female players

- SOPHIE HALLE-RICHARDS

WHEN Helen Hardy was at school, the thought of going out onto the football pitch while on her period was terrifying. Instead of focusing on the game, she'd worry about what could go wrong.

So when the England Women's football team announced that their new home kit will feature blue, instead of white shorts, it felt like a moment to celebrate.

The Lionesses have been playing in all-white home strip, including at the European Championship that they hosted and won last summer.

During that tournament, England winger Beth Mead and midfielder Georgia Stanway spoke out about the issue of playing in the colour while on their periods.

"It's very nice to have an all-white kit, but sometimes it's not practical when it's the time of the month," said Stanway, who previously played for Manchester City.