England's pride

Euro 2022 winner and BBC pundit Ellen White believes the reigning champions can make history again

- SEAN MARLAND

It’s been three years since Chloe Kelly sparked delirium at a packed Wembley Stadium by poking home the extra-time goal that won Euro 2022 for England. ‘I sprinted off the bench and Chloe jumped into my arms, so I had her boobs in my face!’ recalls former England striker Ellen White, who began the match before being substituted in the second half. ‘Beating Germany at Wembley in such dramatic fashion, you couldn't wish for a more iconic moment.’ White was leading the Lionesses' attack back then, but retired after the tournament, and she'll now be covering the action for the BBC this summer as England begin the defence of their title with a set of tough Group D fixtures.

SQUAD TRANSITION

‘England have a great squad with some amazing talent,’ she says. “They can beat anyone on their day, but they're in a challenging group. They have to get points on the board as quickly as they can, because France and the Netherlands are great teams and Wales are going to be highly motivated in their first-ever major tournament.’