Keir Starmer and Angela Rayner hail 'inspirational' Lionesses

19 August 2023 , 21:30

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Keir Starmer and Angela Rayner hailed the lionesses as an "inspiration"

Labour's Keir Starmer and Angela Rayner hailed the Lionesses as an “inspiration to girls everywhere” ahead of tomorrow’s World Cup final.

Deputy leader Angela Rayner told this newspaper she was “totally gutted” at missing the team’s semi-final victory live, because she was visiting a nuclear power plant.

“There’s no way on Earth I’m missing this match,” she said. “It’s a Sunday morning so I’ll likely be cheering them on from the sofa. I’m proud to champion women’s football and England’s Lionesses are an inspiration to girls everywhere. We’re all so proud of them already but today they can make history. Come on England!”

Meanwhile, in a personal letter to the squad, Labour leader Keir Starmer wrote of the pride he felt after taking his daughter to watch the team in the Euros semi-final last year, saying she had been “immediately absorbed.”

Angela Rayner said she'd missed the semi-final because she had to tour a nuclear power plant

“My wife and I have two rules for our kids: happy and confident,” he wrote. “No matter what happens on Sunday, the whole country will always be grateful to you for ensuring a generation of youngsters walk taller and prouder.” He added: “I know your focus will be entirely on finishing the job. But no matter the result, the impact you have had on English football is clear for everyone to see. You have not only inspired countless young girls, but the whole nation.”

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Mr Starmer said he’d be tuning in to watch today’s (SUN) match with his family, adding: “Millions of households will be doing the same. Everyone back in England is with you all the way.”

Mikey Smith