Ellen White, a legend of the Lionesses, has named Michelle Agyemang as the potential key to England’s World Cup triumph. Fresh from their European championship victory over Spain last month, the team now has their sights set on global domination in Brazil. White, who holds the record for the most goals scored for England with 50, singled out 19 year old sensation Agyemang as one of the players who could turn this dream into reality.
Currently on loan at Brighton & Hove Albion WFC from Arsenal, Agyemang made her mark at the Euros with two goals in four appearances, including crucial last-minute equalisers in both the quarter and semi-finals. She was subsequently named young player of the tournament.
“I think she’s got a really amazing opportunity,” White declared. “She was phenomenal at the Euros and I think just having a couple more years to really hone her talent, it will put us in great stead.
“She’s got an amazing stature, amazing presence, amazing technical ability and it’s just about honing her talent and not trying to accelerate it at the same time.
“It was accelerated at the Euros a little bit, but I think it’s just giving her time and giving her experience of playing domestic football in the WSL and giving her more experience in the international stage. “
Ellen White was part of the England team which clinched their first European Championship in 2022. Now retired from professional football, she’s dedicating her time to encouraging youngsters to take up the sport.
Last weekend, she made an appearance at the Más+ by Messi 1v1 World Crown tournament, a competition that pits both women and men against each other to determine the UK’s top baller.
The victors of the male and female contests then have the opportunity to showcase their skills at the world final in Miami, where football icon Lionel Messi will be present.
“So many of us were out in cage football, on the streets, in local communities, playing football and I feel like that 1v1 style is so exciting and intense,” Ellen said. “It brings people together.”
“When you see someone on a football pitch for 11-a-side and you see those wingers or whoever, and they’re taking on someone 1v1, it gets you up off your seat,” she added.
Ellen also tipped Lioness star Lauren Hemp as a player who could make the transition from 11-a-side to the unique 1v1 format – but didn’t fancy her own chances. “I think I would have been cheering on the sidelines,” Ellen joked. “I don’t think 1v1 was quite my style.”
Ellen also said there was room for the WSL and Premier League to learn from emerging sports such as the 1v1 tournament.
“It’s thinking outside the box and considering how we can give as many opportunities to our local community, for whoever to get into sport, both male and female.
“I feel like this kind of 1v1 game is amazing. It’s fast-paced, exciting, it’s intense. I think that’s really exciting and a sense of community and togetherness as well.”