Top ten best female footballers of England in 2024

England’s women’s football team consistently challenged for major titles. Their success stems from a deep talent pool, where competition for a starting spot is fierce. In this article, we will look into ten of England’s most exceptional female footballers in 2024, exploring their strengths, achievements, and the unique contributions they bring to the team.

1. Lauren Hemp (Manchester City)

At 24, Lauren Hemp has already cemented her place as a future legend. Nicknamed “Little Messi” for her dazzling footwork and creative spark, she’s a constant threat on the wing. Her blistering pace allows her to glide past defenders, while her agility and close control make her a magician with the ball. More than just a dribbler, she possesses exceptional vision, threading pinpoint passes to unlock defenses and create scoring opportunities for her teammates. She’s a prolific scorer herself, known for her ability to cut inside and unleash powerful strikes or curl the ball into the top corner.

2. Millie Bright (Chelsea)

The Lionesses’ defensive rock, Millie Bright is a world-class center-back who inspires confidence in those around her. Her leadership qualities are undeniable, marshaling the backline with composure and barking out instructions. A brick wall at 28, her strength in aerial duels makes her a dominant force in the box, routinely winning headers against even the most physical strikers. Bright’s ability to read the game and anticipate danger before it unfolds allows her to make crucial interceptions and tackles, snuffing out attacks before they can gain momentum.

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3. Steph Houghton (Manchester City)

The current Lionesses captain, Steph Houghton, boasts a wealth of experience, having captained the team to numerous international tournaments.  Although injuries have disrupted her playing time in recent seasons, her leadership and tactical knowledge remain invaluable.  A versatile defender comfortable playing across the back four, Houghton reads the game exceptionally well and is adept at organizing the defense.  If she can overcome fitness concerns, her presence will significantly bolster England’s defensive organization and provide valuable guidance to younger players.

4. Fran Kirby (Chelsea)

A nightmare for defenders, Kirby is a lethal striker with an insatiable hunger for goals.  Her pace allows her to burst behind defenses, while her dribbling skills enable her to weave through challenges and create space for herself in the penalty area. Kirby possesses a clinical finishing touch, capable of scoring with both feet and her head.  Despite battling a serious illness, she’s shown remarkable resilience and is gradually returning to her world-class best at 29.  Her return to peak form adds a potent goal scoring threat to the Lionesses’ attack.

5. Leah Williamson (Arsenal)

A young leader with a bright future, Leah Williamson is a versatile player who excels in both midfield and defense. Her composure on the ball allows her to receive passes under pressure and distribute with confidence.  Williamson’s tactical intelligence is exceptional, enabling her to dictate the tempo of the game and orchestrate attacks from a deep position.  Her long-range passing is a valuable weapon, often finding teammates in dangerous positions.  At just 23, she’s already a mainstay in the Lionesses’ starting lineup and a crucial cog in their midfield engine.

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6. Chloe Kelly (Manchester City)

A breakout star for both club and country, Kelly is a skillful winger known for her electrifying pace and powerful shot.  She has the ability to torment defenders with her dribbling skills and exploit space behind the backline.  Kelly’s composure in the final third allows her to take on defenders and create scoring opportunities, either for herself or her teammates.  At 24, she’s an exciting young talent who brings unpredictability and dynamism to the Lionesses’ attack.

7. Ellie Roebuck (Manchester United)

The future is bright in goal for the Lionesses with the emergence of Ellie Roebuck.  Despite her young age (22), Roebuck has already established herself as England’s number one goalkeeper.  Her agility and reflexes are exceptional, allowing her to make acrobatic saves and keep out seemingly impossible shots.  Communication and command of her area are strengths that continue to develop, solidifying her presence as a reliable last line of defense.

8. Jess Park (Everton)

A technically gifted midfielder with a bright future, Park is quickly turning heads with her performances for Everton.  At 20, she already possesses a mature understanding of the game, dictating the tempo of play with her dribbling skills and vision. Park’s ability to pick a pass and unlock defenses with through balls makes her a vital creative force in midfield. She complements her teammates’ attacking prowess by providing a link between defense and attack.  As she gains experience at the international level, Park has the potential to become a mainstay in the Lionesses’ midfield for years to come.

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9. Lauren James (Chelsea)

Following in the footsteps of her brother, Reece James, Lauren James is a young talent with the potential to become a world-beater. Blessed with blistering pace and exceptional dribbling skills, James leaves defenders in her wake as she cuts through defenses.  Her ability to take on defenders one-on-one and create dangerous situations makes her a constant threat on the wing.  At 21, she’s already a key player for Chelsea and is pushing for a regular starting spot with the Lionesses.  James’ finishing ability continues to develop, and with more experience, she has the potential to become a prolific goalscorer for both club and country.

10. Nikita Parris (Olympique Lyonnais)

A veteran forward with a decorated career, Parris brings experience and a winning mentality to the Lionesses squad.  While injuries have limited her playing time recently, her pace, finishing ability, and versatility across the frontline make her a valuable asset at 30 years old.  Parris can play as a central striker, a winger, or even drop deeper to create chances for her teammates.  Her experience playing at the highest level with Olympique Lyonnais is invaluable, and her leadership qualities can be crucial in guiding younger players within the squad.

Beyond the Starting XI

This list highlights just a fraction of the exceptional talent within the English women’s football scene.  Players like Lucy Bronze, Alex Greenwood, Jordan Nobbs, and Bethany England are all established internationals who can make a significant impact on any given match.  The strength of the Lionesses lies in their depth, with competition for places in the squad pushing every player to perform at their best.

The Road Ahead

With a strong youth development system continuously producing future stars, the future of English women’s football is incredibly bright.  The Lionesses have already established themselves as one of the strongest teams in the world, consistently challenging for major trophies.  As they continue to develop and gain experience, this group of talented footballers has the potential to write their names into the history books and bring further glory to English football.

Looking at the statistics

• Lauren Hemp’s dribbling skills and creativity were key in Manchester City’s record-breaking goal tally in the 2023/24 FA Women’s Super League season.
• Millie Bright’s leadership and defensive solidity were instrumental in helping Chelsea win the 2024 Women’s Champions League title.
• Steph Houghton’s experience and tactical nous were crucial in guiding England to the final of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
• Fran Kirby’s return to goalscoring form has seen her break several Chelsea scoring records in the 2023/24 season.
• Leah Williamson’s composure and passing ability have been vital in helping Arsenal win the 2024 FA Women’s Continental Cup.

Conclusion

The Lionesses’ success is a testament to the incredible talent pool within English women’s football.  These 10 players represent just a glimpse of the depth and quality that exists within the squad.  With their hunger for success, unwavering determination, and world-class skills, the Lionesses are poised to continue their dominance on the international stage for years to come.