Man United's Katie Zelem lifts lid on World Cup dream and new role amid England bonus disupte

Manchester United and England midfielder Katie Zelem says being chosen to represent her country at the upcoming Women's World Cup is the realisation of a lifelong dream.

This summer's tournament - hosted jointly by Australia and New Zealand - looks set to be the biggest spectacle in women's football history, with England among the favourites to take home the trophy. Sarina Wiegman's squad made the trip down under last week and are continuing their preparations ahead of their opening game against Haiti in Brisbane on July 22.

Zelem, who made 29 appearances in all competitions for the Reds last term, made her England debut in 2021 however the 27-year-old has never featured for the Lionesses at a major tournament. And the midfielder has revealed her omission from last year's Euros squad further fuelled her desire to secure a seat on the plane to Australia this summer.

"I’m so excited. It’s my first major tournament and something I’ve dreamed of since I was a little girl," Zelem said.

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"I can’t wait to get going. I guess after the Euros last year, and the disappointment of not being selected, it was always my aim to have the best season I could to put myself in with a chance."

Zelem, who was appointed United captain in 2019, recently became the newest member of the Professional Football Association’s elected Players’ Board. She joins the team of players from across the Premier League, EFL and WSL who ensure that the voice of PFA members is communicated to the union’s leadership team.

The Players’ Board, which is Chaired by Leyton Orient’s Omar Beckles, is elected by PFA members, with former professionals also being represented.