sport news England 'one of the favourites' at the next World Cup after Euro 2022 success, ... trends now
Emma Hayes believes England's stunning success at the women's European Championship will now see them march to the World Cup next year as one of the tournament's favourites.
Following the heartbreak of three consecutive semi-final defeats across the Euros and World Cup tournaments, the Lionesses finally broke their duck on Sunday night after defeating Germany at Wembley to win their first major trophy.
But while the Chelsea manager was guarded in admitting England had home advantage to aid them this summer, she insists that the current crop of players coming through can still shine under pressure in Australia and New Zealand next year, despite being a target as European champions.
England celebrate winning Euro 2020 on Sunday after a 2-1 victory over Germany at Wembley
I think it's fair to say that we were very much favourites at a home tournament', Hayes said.
'Having home advantage certainly helps and I think crossing the globe to play in Australia, with the title of European champions adds pressure. But I do think we've got a fantastic group of younger players coming through that can build on the current success. So of course, as European champions, we will go in as one of the favourites.
'Great people make great teams. I think they are relatable. Everybody can see themselves or their children in them. I think the responsibility to deliver for the nation is something that inspired them and didn't paralyse them. Especially in the moment on Sunday night at 1-1.
Chelsea manager Emma Hayes believes they can now prove a major threat at the World Cup
'I think it was unbelievable how they dealt with the challenges of the game and the tournament.
Hayes also singled out praise for her Chelsea stars including Millie Bright and Fran Kirby who were major parts of the first-team, as well as other Blues players in Jess Carter and Bethany England who were also part of the Lionesses squad.
Hayes added: 'As far as Millie and Fran and Jess and Beth too, it's like being a proud parent. I felt like a Mum and my kids had just won the lottery. And that was, I think, something that will live in my memory forever. And I'm so
