Sold-out stadiums, increased media coverage and interest; Kiera Walsh is delighted by the rise of the women’s game and believes this summer’s World Cup is the perfect breeding ground for extending its remarkable growth.
The 22-year-old playmaker has put in a number of eye-catching displays since making her debut in November 2017.
The tournament is expected to be the biggest yet but Walsh believes Phil Neville’s side must perform well if the game is to further enhance its popularity in England at its current rapid rate of knots.
She said: “The rise has been huge.
“We know that if we want it to continue we have to put in the performances we know we’re capable of at the World Cup.”
A part of the Lionesses’ Manchester City contingent, Walsh also remarked on the crowds and coverage expected to go to a new level in France.
“To know that a lot of the games have sold out and the amount of media that will be out there, it’s exciting,” she said.
The World Cup will be Walsh’s first with England and she is relishing the opportunity to impress on the major stage.
“I can’t wait,” she added.
“As a young player going to my first World Cup I’m really excited.
“I want to go and enjoy it. I’m part of a great squad with great players who’ll hopefully be able to get the job done.”
Victory in France would likely establish the Lionesses in English sporting folklore and Walsh thinks glory is a distinct possibility.
“We know that we’re one of the favourites,” she said.
“We’re going there with the belief that we can win. We know what we can do so it’s just down to us to deliver that under pressure.”
Walsh and England get under way with their opening Group D game against Scotland on Sunday 9 June before meetings with Argentina [Friday 14 June] and Japan [Wednesday 19 June].
