England striker Ellen White excited about campaign to help tackle online sexism

Ellen White will again turn off her social-media accounts this week ahead of the Women’s European Championship starting but is hopeful EE’s new campaign to tackle online sexism will help make a difference.

The 33-year-old is no stranger to ditching Twitter and Instagram before a major tournament having done the same for the Olympics last year and the 2019 World Cup.

White was among the best performers at both competitions, but it has not stopped her being on the end of abuse on social media.

It is a similar story for men and women footballers up and down the country, which is why EE has unveiled its Hope United 2022 side who tackle sexist hate online.

“The nature of playing football, you do obviously get those comments that aren’t the nicest to see or witness,” White told the PA news agency.

“I get stuff like get back in the kitchen, basically that sort of thing.

“It is pretty old school stuff really that shouldn’t be out there and shouldn’t be said. There are ruder ones obviously but I will not go into that. That type of thing needs to stop on social media.

“For me, I try to not look at that but I know it can affect a lot of people and it isn’t nice to read. For my family and friends to read that as well, it can be quite hurtful so to try and alleviate that kind of abuse and what people are writing will be a positive from this campaign.”

Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses are one of the favourites to taste success in their home tournament over the next month but even a strong run to the final will not guarantee the squad stay clear of online abuse.

I try to not look at that but I know it can affect a lot of people and it isn't nice to read. For my family and friends to read that as well, it can be quite hurtful- Ellen White on