Northern Ireland Women v England (12/04/2021)

SARAH McFADDEN PROUD AND PASSIONATE

Sarah Robson (nee McFadden) is one of the most experienced, and most versatile, players in Kenny Shiels’ squad – and Northern Ireland will need to lean on all her nous and know-how when they face England at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park tonight. The 34-year-old largely operates as a central midfielder or a centre back these days but has also been known to play up front. She simply loves playing for her country. She played for Northern Ireland at Under-14, U15, U17 and U19 levels before turning out for the senior international team, for whom she has earned 84 caps and scored six times. She made her senior debut in 2005.

“I am proud of every cap I have received for Northern Ireland and proud that I am still involved in the set-up after all these years,” she said. “I am also proud that I have been part of a campaign that exceeded all expectations (reaching UEFA Women’s Euro 2022) and can hopefully help inspire the next generation of girls coming through.” Sarah is well aware that tonight’s dress rehearsal for the Euros group game against England in Southampton on 15 July will be a real David v Goliath affair. “We are all really looking forward to this game against England. It will be a great occasion playing at Windsor in front of a record crowd,” she said.

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NIR V ENG