Ella Toone aims for World Cup glory with England after 'pinch me' Euros moment

England star Ella Toone is hoping to replicate the 'pinch me' moment from the Euro 2022 final as she heads to her first World Cup with the Lionesses.

Toone, who came on as a substitute, opened the scoring in the Wembley showdown against Germany with a magnificent lofted effort, helping her country secure their first-ever major trophy with a 2-1 win.

Reflecting on the moment, the 23-year-old said, "It's still a pinch-me moment – I still sometimes don't think it's sunk in. But it's the best feeling I've had in football, and one that I want to experience over and over again."

She added, "I've tasted victory and I definitely want to win more trophies throughout my career."

Toone is now focused on the upcoming World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, which begins next Thursday. Sarina Wiegman's team will kick off their campaign two days later against Haiti in Brisbane.

Having made substitute appearances in every match during the Euros, often replacing the injured Fran Kirby, Toone has since started in 10 out of 12 England fixtures and played a crucial role in Manchester United's successful Women's Super League and FA Cup campaigns.

Regarding her role in the upcoming tournament, Toone said, "I'm not putting too much pressure on myself. I'll give 100 per cent in whatever role Sarina asks of me, whether it's starting or coming off the bench. I'll make sure I'm ready for that."

She continued, "Since the Euros, my focus has been on improving as a player and working hard. I know there are areas I need to keep working on, but I'm ready to showcase my skills on the world stage. It's something I've dreamt of since I was a little girl, so I want to make sure I enjoy every minute of it."

England will begin their World Cup campaign