Phil Neville believes his England squad can help the women’s game “explode” in this country by delivering success at the 2019 World Cup.
The Lionesses started their build-up campaign for next summer’s showpiece finals with an impressive 1-0 victory over Brazil at Meadow Lane on Saturday.
Australia, one of England Women head coach Neville’s “dark horses” to challenge for the title in France, are next up at Craven Cottage on Tuesday night.
Always an honour to play against some of the best women’s players to have played the game. We are in London ready for our next game ✌🏻 let’s get an amazing crowd, make sure you buy your tickets! 🏴 Vs. 🇦🇺 @Lionesses ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/1NojOtOeiN
— Fran Kirby (@frankirby) October 7, 2018
After England coasted through their qualification group – winning seven out of eight matches and conceding just once – expectation is high for a team currently ranked third in the world.
Neville believes if the squad can get things right in France next summer, then it would provide a dramatic impact for the women’s game back home.
“I think this is probably our moment really, where it can explode,” Neville told Press Association Sport.
“I say to everyone at the FA (Football Association), that the only way the game can explode is if an England team is successful – and that means winning.”
Neville, appointed to the job at the end of January, added: “We did unbelievably well at the last World Cup in Canada, to finish third, which started the ball rolling.
“It has kicked on from there with us getting to the semi-finals in the (2017) Euros.
Us: There's only one day left until the @Lionesses vs 🇦🇺!
You: pic.twitter.com/4vH101vjH3
— Lionesses (@Lionesses) October 8, 2018
“Now we have to start getting to finals and winning, because that is the only way we are going to inspire the next generation, by seeing a gold medal around our neck and lifting the trophy. That is the challenge really.”
Australia finished runners-up to hosts the United States at the 2018
Tournament of Nations.
Neville believes the Matildas will offer his side another marker of their own progress on the road towards France 2019.
Goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold is confident the @TheMatildas are ready for England after a French ‘learning curve’ – https://t.co/k65hsHLjrs #GoMatildas #ENGvAUS pic.twitter.com/FVzT3dLF9c
— Westfield Matildas (@TheMatildas) October 8, 2018
“There is a consistency to their performances and structure,” the former England, Manchester United and Everton player said.
“Physical strength is their biggest quality. They have a really good system of players who are playing in top leagues in the world.
“Australia could be one of the dark horses for the World Cup.”
Midfielder Jill Scott did not feature against Brazil because of a concern over discomfort in her ankle and has returned to Manchester City for further assessment.
