Lionesses

Good luck billboard pops up in Sunderland for Jill Scott as the Lionesses head to France

Messages of support for the England women's national football team have appeared on 23 billboards across England, as the country bids farewell and good luck to the Lionesses ahead of their FIFA Women’s World Cup campaign.

Each billboard celebrates an individual from the 23-player squad and features an image of the Lioness accompanied by a supportive message from an inspiration in their early career, such as a friend, family member, teacher or coach. The billboards have appeared across the country in locations that are special to each player and their journey, from where they grew up to the location of their current club.

Sunderland local Jill Scott is one of England’s most capped players. Jill’s billboard can be found close to the Stadium of Light in her beloved home town. Jill’s message is written by former coach, Paul Smith, “You were a dream to coach, always listened and willing to learn. Good luck, everyone at Bolden C.A. Girls Football Club will be watching."

Phil Neville, manager of the England women’s national team, said: “This is a great send-off for the team ahead of the World Cup and encapsulates the phenomenal support that they have received so far. The girls know that the country is fully behind them and can’t wait to get out there and give it everything.”

The FIFA Women’s World Cup runs from 7 June to 7 July with the Lionesses playing their first game on 9 June against Scotland in Nice, kick off 17:00 (BST). All fixtures will be broadcast live on the BBC.

For more information visit www.thefa.com/lionesses