I have probably always doubted my ability...

FORMER ENGLAND FOOTBALL STAR JILL SCOTT TALKS TO CAMILLA FOSTER ABOUT IMPOSTER SYNDROME AND THE HIGHS AND LOWS OF A SPORTS CAREER

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Jill with young beneficiaries of the Kick On campaign, which aims to boost the number of female football coaches

SINCE hanging up her football boots for good, former Lioness Jill Scott has been reflecting on how imposter syndrome hindered her confidence throughout her playing career.

The England legend won over 150 caps for the Lionesses and retired after the incredible high of being part of the team which won the UEFA Women's Euro 2022 tournament on home soil.

Despite these impressive accomplishments, the former midfielder from Sunderland admits she often doubted her abilities on the pitch.

"Now that I've retired, I've really reflected on the journey and self-doubt is something I've always had throughout my career and, if I'm being completely honest with myself, it never really went away," says the 38-year-old. "I have probably always doubted my ability.

"I was always surrounded by amazing players and had imposter syndrome, asking myself, am I really good enough to be here?"

However, she learned how to channel these lingering feelings into something positive.

"I just turned this doubt into telling myself you've got to keep working hard to be as good as everybody around you," says Jill. "I think that's what kept me in the game and at the level I needed to be at."

Having strong female role models in the England squad helped Jill realise her potential.