England’s Lionesses could one day have a future queen keeping goal, as Princess Charlotte asked her father to tell the squad about her talents.
The Duke of Cambridge visited the squad at their training base in Burton-upon-Trent earlier today as they prepare for next month’s Euros on home soil.
As he watched the team get put through their paces in a light session he also took part in a shooting session before chatting to the players.
After the visit Prince William, president of the Football Association, was presented with three jerseys adorned with his children’s names by captain Leah Williamson.
Thanking them for the gift, Prince William revealed Cambridge could one day be written on the back of a goalkeeper shirt as Charlotte, seven, is keen to get between the sticks.
He said: “Charlotte wanted me to tell you that she's really good in goal.
“She said please tell them that. Budding star for the future.”
Earlier he described the players as “trailblazers”.
He added: “It's a big tournament coming up for you, it's exciting and everyone's looking forward to it. You are all trailblazers for women's sport and women's football.
"The best of luck. You're going to have big crowds, good TV - it's going to be an awesome summer, it really is.
"I will be keeping an eye on what you're doing and be watching the games with the children, and I'll try to come along where I can to give my support.
"We're all so proud of you, and you should be really proud of yourselves, where you've got yourselves.
“This is the pinnacle coming right up, the next few weeks for you, and I know you'll do us all proud."
It comes as the final squad for this summer’s tournament was announced by head coach Sarina Wiegman.
Among the surprises was the omission of Steph Houghton, England’s captain from the last three major tournaments who has not played since January owing to injury.
Lucy Staniforth, Katie Zelem, Niamh Charles and Sandy MacIver also miss out on the home tournament.
Wiegman said in a statement: “I am excited by what is possible for this group.
“We all know this is a huge opportunity and it is one we have to grab with both hands. The chance to represent the nation on such a big stage on home soil is one to relish.
“This group so far has proven they are prepared to give it all they have in every training session, in every meeting and in every game.
“Making the final selection is always difficult because we know the talent and commitment of every single player.
“Togetherness is a big part of what we are all about and from every player in the squad to my superb support team, and with the strong backing of everyone at the FA and our fans, we are committed to make it a summer to remember.”
