Landmark Move for Women’s Football
In a landmark move for women’s football, Lauren Hemp has praised the anticipated first £1 million transfer, likening it to a sign of the sport’s escalating popularity. Reports indicate that Arsenal has made a historic offer for Liverpool’s Olivia Smith, aiming to surpass the previous record set when Naomi Girma transferred to Chelsea for a high fee. Hemp expressed her excitement about these rising transfer values, suggesting that they reflect the progress and growing recognition of female footballers in the sport.
Focus on Upcoming Matches
Speaking from their Euros camp, where the England team is focusing on their upcoming match against Wales, Hemp acknowledged the significant attention on such transfers, stating:
“We’re currently in a bubble here, but it’s really encouraging to see how the women’s game is evolving. This growth is something we want to continue to see and support.”
Hemp’s current priorities, however, are squarely on the forthcoming match against Wales in their Euro 2025 campaign. After an initial setback with a 2-1 loss to France, the Lionesses rebounded impressively in their second match, achieving a convincing 4-0 victory over the Netherlands. Reflecting on the game, she noted that there is always room for improvement, emphasizing that while they are proud of their performance, they must continue to strive for momentum.
Respect for Opponents
As they prepare for the encounter in St. Gallen, Hemp remarked on the importance of maintaining focus and not underestimating Wales, who are competing in their first major tournament. She stated:
“We hold a lot of respect for Wales and recognize their achievements so far. They have talented players, and we are aware of the strengths they bring to the match. However, we too possess numerous strengths and have carefully analyzed how to deliver our best performance.”
Acknowledging the pressure following their earlier defeat, Hemp conveyed that the team has adopted a critical focus as if each match is an elimination round. This commitment stems from their experience, and she highlighted the valuable contribution of both seasoned players and fresh talent to the team’s dynamics.
Determination to Succeed
“With a mix of experienced and young players, we are equipped to handle the challenges ahead. There’s a strong desire to win, and we will rely on our character and determination to succeed,” she asserted.
As the Lionesses gear up for what promises to be a challenging bout, Hemp made it clear that they are prepared to fight for the victory.
