Men's football has long held its place in the hearts of its fans, but women's football has only recently begun to receive the attention it deserves. This is largely thanks to the English women's football team, and many of the players who have quickly become household names.
Undoubtedly the English Lionesses provide a stellar example for all young girls aspiring to play women's football; showing just what's possible with dedication and hard work, and demonstrating that it's possible to win money playing your favourite sport. Phil Neville takes his Lionesses team to Euro 2021 next year and you can view the markets with help of the new customers offer for Ladbrokes played across eight host cities. And with the Women's Super League is move away from its niche reach into the mainstream.
But what do you really know about the famed English Lionesses? Here's a look at these interesting female football players.
Karen Bardsley
Bardsley is an American-born football player, who moved to England about five years ago to play for Manchester City. Being 5 feet, 11 inches tall might have a lot to do with her prowess and skill as an undeniably outstanding goalkeeper.
Siobhan Chamberlain
Another goalkeeper, Chamberlain plays for Liverpool, and was a gymnast prior to playing football. Proof of her remarkable dedication to the sport was evident when she got married two years ago; she left all the planning to her fiancé so she could train for the World Cup, in Canada.
Laura Bassett
A leading and reliable defender, 33-year Bassett experienced tremendous disappointment when her own-goal resulted in the defeat of England in the semi-finals for the World Cup in 2015. But Bassett remains resilient, having played for different teams such as Coventry, Arsenal, Leeds, Chelsea, and Birmingham.
Steph Houghton
The captain of the English team, Houghton has emerged as a leading figure in women's football, having led the English women's football team since 2014. Aside from this, she has also played for Great Britain in the Olympics. Houghton has recently signed for her fourth season at Manchester City, but she previously played for Arsenal and Leeds as well.
Isobel Christiansen
At only 25 years of age, Christiansen established a place in the English midfield as a result of her performance and skill whilst playing for Manchester City, winning a total of three awards, including the PFA Player of the Year.
Jade Moore
Another midfielder, Moore is known as an amazing player, especially in light of her heart condition. This Reading FC midfielder has already won the FA Cup, in 2012, as well as the Premier League Cup, in 2010.
Karen Carney
This forward has an astounding 129 caps, and Carney has been known as one of the best female football players in the world for more than ten years. As a 17-year old, she played in the Euro Cup, in 2005. Since then, Carney has played in a total of 3 World Cups and 3 European Championships.
