Pip Wilson backs England in semi-final

As England prepare to face the USA in tonight’s Women’s World Cup semi-final, new Wolves Women recruit Philippa ‘Pip’ Wilson has her own transatlantic battle going on in the build-up to the big match in Lyon.

Wilson left Wolves six years ago to take up a football scholarship at Webber International University in Florida, where she made many friends who this evening will become ‘enemies’ as the two countries clash.

She said: “My American friends and me have been messaging each other in the last few days, winding each other up and telling each other how we’re going to come out on top to reach the final – and I’m confident it will be England.”

Wilson is living back in her previous home town of Telford after returning from Australia, where last season she played for Melbourne team South Yarra. And returning to Wolves was the natural thing to do, says the 24-year-old midfielder.

“I joined Wolves when I was 16 and loved playing for the club, so when it came to trying out for a new team I didn’t think of anyone else. There are a number of people who are still at the club from when I was here before and that’s lovely.

“There’s a really good vibe around the squad, and from the training sessions we’ve had so far there seems to be an absolute confidence that we can have a very good season – with promotion the definite aim.”

As she becomes acclimatised to her new/old surroundings Wilson is looking forward to playing in England again – and, more immediately, to supporting the Lionesses as they look to reach their first ever World Cup final.

“America will be favourites tonight as the number one team in the world,” she notes, “but this England team is the best we’ve ever had in my opinion and I think we’re good enough to beat them – and to go on and win the final.”