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As part of Three UK’s #WeSeeYou Network campaign, Three UK sat down with a selection of top players from Chelsea FC Women’s past and present; Sam Kerr, Niamh Charles, Erin Cuthbert and Eni Aluko, to discuss the growth and progression of women’s football throughout their careers.
Australian international Kerr is set to be one of the faces of the 2023 World Cup, with her country co-hosting the showpiece event, but admitted growing up she didn’t realise women could play football for Australia.
“When I was a kid, I didn’t ever know who my national team was, I didn’t know there was a women’s national team in Australia. Now the Matildas in Australia are one of the most loved teams,” said Kerr.
“Everything from resources to support, to the pitches we play on to the kits we play in, all the TV deals, all the sponsorship deals, everything has changed.”
Former Chelsea FC and England striker Eni Aluko experienced the game’s growth first hand. She began her career with women’s football still an amateur sport in England and by the time she hung up her boots the game had become professional.
“I’m just so proud,” said Aluko. “I could talk about it all day. I’m so proud. I’m so proud of where the game is now, and I’m just so happy that I’ve been part of it, the changes throughout my life.”
England international Niamh Charles began her senior career with Liverpool in 2016, and has already witnessed the landscape of women’s football change drastically in this short space of time.
“When you’re in it, you don’t really take a chance to sort of step back and see how much it’s grown,” Charles added. “You’re starting to see it trickle into the wider foundation of women’s football across the country. It’s really progressed so there are a lot more opportunities for girls, and it’s totally normal for them to go and play.”
The #WeSeeYou Network is an initiative aimed at celebrating & promoting women in football & sport. You have until Friday 17th February at 12pm to nominate yourself or an inspirational woman in your life for the chance to take part in incredible experiences and a once-in-a lifetime mentorship thanks to our partners at Chelsea FC.
Who inspires you? Who champions you? Who drives you? Who deserves to be seen and recognised? We want to see all of you! Nominate a woman who deserves to be seen at https://weseeyounetwork.co.uk/nominate/
