Lionesses continue to inspire! England team set for talks with UK government over girls' access to football in schools

According to The Independent, 43 per cent of girls aged 11-16 have access to football in schools, versus 66 per cent of boys. However, Keir Starmer's government is seemingly open to meeting with the England Women's national team to discuss this matter.

A UK Government spokesperson told The Independent: “The success of the Lionesses in recent years has been inspiring. We are determined to support the growth of women’s and girls’ football, from elite to grass-roots level. That is why in July we set out plans to support the next generation of footballers with a commitment to continued funding for inclusive grass-roots facilities. We have also launched a review of the school curriculum to ensure all pupils get access to high-quality physical education, school sports, and physical activities.”

Two years on from their Euro 2022 triumph, England captain Leah Williamson is also directing her considerable influence towards this effort, with the 27-year-old expecting "conversations [with the UK Government] to reignite” following the general election in July.

“It’s not been a conversation that we’ve had yet,” she said. “Keir Starmer was a huge supporter of us [as Leader of the Opposition] in terms of attending games and I know he has a huge interest in football.”

While talks are likely to continue behind the scenes, Sarina Wiegman's England are next in international action on October 25 when they take on beaten Euro 2022 finalists Germany in a friendly match.