Alex Greenwood admits that having the opportunity to bring her family to France for the World Cup is the most important part of the tournament for her away from the pitch.
With the Lionesses’ opening Group D game against Scotland on Sunday fast approaching, the England left-back explains how difficult it can be for players to be away from their loved ones.
“I love spending every day with this group of women but don’t get me wrong when you’re four weeks in, it gets tough,” she said.
“You miss family, you miss friends.”
Greenwood, who is due to play in her third major senior tournament with the Lionesses, has stressed on social media the importance her family play in her football career.
Her partner, Jack O’Connell, who is also a professional footballer with Sheffield United, and her young nephew, Logan, feature heavily on her pages, along with other family members, and are often seen supporting her at domestic and international games.
Most recently her family were pitchside to see her lift the FA Women’s Championship trophy in United’s inaugural season.
England’s head coach Phil Neville is a staunch advocate of family support and with this summer’s event being staged relatively close in northern Europe, his squad are fortunate to be able to have their relatives fly out to experience the tournament with the side.
Greenwood sees this as a favourite part of the upcoming tournament.
“For me it’s bringing my family out,” she said, “letting them experience these things with me which is the most important to me.
“We’re going to France which is a lovely location. We get to experience things that not many people get to do.”
Greenwood’s England team-mate Millie Bright will also have the backing of her loved ones in France.
This will be Bright’s first World Cup but she is no stranger to the big stage as she helped England reach the semi-finals of Euro 2017.
The Chelsea defender joked: “If you tell my mum she’s missing a game, she’ll tell you she’s not. She will find a way to get there.
“They’re all booked up and ready to go and I can’t wait to get out there.”
