THEY forced the nation to sit up and take notice of women’s football as they smashed their way to today’s Euros final – but England’s Lionesses say that is all down to their unbreakable bonds.
The immense team spirit that took them all the way to Wembley is built on friendships that go all the way back to their childhoods.
And their revolution in female football is inspired by attentive mentoring from older players.
The stars of the game have opened up about how they’ve inspired each other as they bid to become the first England team to win a major trophy in 56 years.
As children, defenders Lucy Bronze and Demi Stokes used to travel to games with Lucy Staniforth and Jordan Nobbs – two midfield aces who just missed out on being picked for the squad this time.
The two Lucys grew up together in the tiny Northumberland village of Anick. They went to the same primary school and ended up as neighbours.
Lucy Staniforth, 29, who also plays for Manchester United, recalled: “There was a girl there with a short bob and red hair and I was looking at her like, ‘Who the hell is that?’ It was only Lucy!
“We joined the school on the same day and then, lo and behold, we moved house and our new home actually backed onto Lucy’s garden.
“It’s such a strange circumstance. She basically had no choice but to be my friend. I was just a little weirdo looking for someone to cling on to.
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der July 31, 2022-Ausgabe von The Sunday Mirror.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent ? Anmelden
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der July 31, 2022-Ausgabe von The Sunday Mirror.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent? Anmelden
DINE & DASH
No worry Wolves enjoy try feast... as 'no effort Giants pay bill
LOOK BAKU IN ANGER. LANDO
Norris sees world title bid dented as the wheels come off in qualifying nightmare | \"My car's quick but don't expect magic from 16th on this street circuit...
Mum saved my life and now against the odds I've had my own miracle baby
EVERY year, grateful Jessica Chriss celebrates two birthdays.
My bond with mum of Brianna's killer
Esther Ghey thanks murderer Scarlett's mother for support as festival opens
FURY AT WHITE WIDOW MOVIE EL
survivor Mall massacre slams 'biased' project
Talk to your children about their feelings
Tom & Giovanna back mental health campaign
I wanted revenge now I'm fighting to end the violence
WHEN Tim Edwards’ daughter Elle was killed in the crossfire of a senseless gang war, understandably he wanted retribution.
OOPS..WE BOOKED INTO A SEX HOTEL
Kelly Brook on her night in naughty motel with hubby
It's time for Harry to stop living in the past
PRINCE Harry's 40th birthday is a milestone in more ways than one.
A HUG FOR SVEN
Statue of tate Enqtand. boss in his home town to be heated so It's warm to touch