‘We’ve got a target on our backs now we’re European champions’, says England ace Rachel Daly
RACHEL DALY joked about feeling like a Big Brother contestant when leaving England’s camp for the first time after their Euros win.
And the Harrogate-born WSL star reckons the team have a target on their backs after becoming Europe’s top dogs.
Daly, who has 57 caps, admits that life has changed greatly for the team, who take on Austria in a World Cup qualifier on Saturday.
The match is the first Sarina Wiegman’s aces will play since their historic triumph at Wembley on July 31.
Reflecting on how life has shifted for the Lionesses, Daly, 30, said: “During the Euros, we were in a bubble.
“I don’t think we were fully aware of how much of an impact we had on the nation.
“So, coming out, it was a whirlwind. It was almost like you’d been on Big Brother or Love Island.
“It was unbelievable to see we’d inspired the nation.”
Read More Sports Stories
A draw with their Austrian opponents would see England seal qualification for next year’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
Daly believes the Lionesses – unbeaten under Wiegman in 20 games – instil fear in their opponents.
The defender, who sealed a summer switch to Aston Villa from American top-flight side Houston Dash, added: “England are a team that is feared.
“We are now European champions and that is something you have got to look at with a great deal of respect.
“The pressure is all on our backs. Football in England is taking off.
Most read in Football
FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
“But pressure is a privilege, and we have to see it as that. Right now, we’re focused on qualifying for the World Cup.
“We’re European champions of course, but our focus is on the World Cup qualification stage. We know what we need to do.”
England’s duel with Austria will be the first fixture the team will play following the retirements of Ellen White and Jill Scott.
And while their presence will be missed, Daly acknowledges there is also an opportunity for the squad’s younger players and rising stars to shine.
Daly joked: “It’s definitely quieter without Jill.
“They are missed as people and players, but again, it opens up a new opportunity to the youngsters to come through and shine.”
“They’re two massive characters, great football but honestly even better humans.
“When you are with them every day you’d feel the empowerment, you’d feel the support, and they’re just fantastic people.
“They deserve the world for what they’ve done for the women’s game in England and not just here but for the women’s game in general.”
Austria vs England will be aired on ITV on Saturday 3 September. The game kicks off at 4:00 pm