Houghton wants England to enjoy every moment in Canada

Tuesday 12 May 2015
England's squad for the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup

England Women’s captain Steph Houghton has urged her team-mates to "enjoy every moment" at this summer’s World Cup.

The 27-year-old will lead the Lionesses at Canada 2015 after recovering from a knee injury she picked up in March.

Head coach Mark Sampson named his 23-player squad for the World Cup on Monday – and Houghton wants to make the most of the opportunity.

She said: "To be a part of a World Cup squad is a great achievement. It just shows how hard everyone has worked to get themselves into this position.

"Hopefully we can go and enjoy every moment."

Reading youngster Fran Kirby was also named in the final 23 and will be appearing in her first World Cup.

The 21-year-old said: "It was always something that I dreamed of doing [but] I never thought it would happen [so] soon.

"This time last year, I wasn’t even in and around the squad, so being able to do it this year is absolutely incredible."

England begin their campaign against France on Tuesday 9 June, followed by further group matches against Mexico and Colombia.

By Glenn Lavery at St. George's Park