Give our hero Lionesses the honours they deserve

We’re on top of the world, say stars as calls build for them to win awards WOMEN’S EURO 2022

- Robert Dex and Rachael Burford

CALLS for England’s victorious Lionesses to be honoured by the Queen were growing today as the nation continued to celebrate their historic Euro 2022 win.

As many as 17.4 million people tuned in watch last night’s 2-1 final win over Germany, making it easily the most watched TV event of the year. It also smashed the previous record for a women’s football audience which stood at 11.7 million for the 2019 World Cup semi-final between England and US.

The Lionesses’ victory, in front of 87,000 supporters at Wembley Stadium and sealed by London-born Chloe Kelly’s extra-time goal, prompted an outpouring of tributes to the team from across the nation.

Victorious: Ella Toone shows off her medal and the trophy

Captain Leah Williamson today revealed that Prince William, who greeted the players as they collected the trophy, insisted on giving her a celebratory hug. She said: “I went to shake his hand and he said, ‘Leah, bring it in’.” Prince Charles earlier sent his congratulations to the team. He said: “Your teamwork, determination and sportsmanship will inspire a generation. You have made us all proud.”

The Queen told the team their “success goes far beyond the trophy”. She added: “You have all set an example that will be an inspiration for girls and women today, and for future generations.”

There were growing calls today for the Lionesses and their coach Sarina Wieg man to be honoured. Lib-Dem leader Ed Davey said: “It is absolutely right that our incredible Lionesses receive honours for bringing football home. They have united the country and inspired a new generation of girls to take up sport.”