New mum Demi Stokes hails openness and inclusivity of women’s football

New mum Demi Stokes has hailed the authenticity of women’s football that has allowed her to speak openly about her family life.

The 30-year-old full-back will be gunning to help England claim Women’s Euro 2022 glory on home soil this summer, with hopes hoisted after Friday’s 5-1 thrashing of the Netherlands.

Stokes and partner Katie welcomed baby Harlen in May, with the couple relishing getting to grips with parenting ever since.

And Manchester City star Stokes believes the openness and inclusivity that runs right through women’s football is central to what clearly represents a freeing situation.

“I think it’s about being comfortable with yourself, and the men’s game is very different, there’s a lot of taboo there, and I think you can see there are players (in the men’s game) that are starting to come out and the more players that do that does encourage the next person,” said Stokes.

“So I think it’s obviously a slow process but within our game (the women’s game) we welcome everyone and I think that’s good.

“I think as well sharing my story and being quite open and honest about a lot of things, I think can help a lot of people, so I think it’s about using my voice.

“And some topics are uncomfortable, and I don’t know everything, but I think it’s about me being in a position and using my platform to help the next person.”

When quizzed on what makes women’s football different, Stokes continued: “I don’t think I have the answer to that but I think our fans are great, and team-mates and stuff, and it’s just about ‘be yourself’, being authentic with it, and if you open up on it nobody can pull you up on that.

“Equally as well, the support that you have around you does make it easier. But it’s about being yourself, and people