YORK City have hailed former junior Jess Park as “an absolute inspiration” ahead a potential England debut tomorrow evening (8pm).
Park progressed through York’s Regional Talent Club programme before joining former Women’s Super League champions Manchester City in 2017.
The forward has since impressed for England’s youth sides, scoring 32 goals from as many combined caps for the Under-17s and Under-19s, as well as at Man City and Everton, where she is currently on a season-long loan.
Park’s performances have earned her a first call-up to the senior England squad, who won the European Championships in July.
The 20-year-old could make her senior England debut in Friday's sold-out friendly against the USA, the four-time and reigning world champions, at Wembley Stadium.
York City Foundation manager and RTC license holder Paula Stainton expressed her delight for Park.
Stainton said: “After a fabulous summer for the Lionesses, I said it was only a matter of time before we saw Jess joining them and I am absolutely delighted to see she has been given that opportunity.
“It’s testament to her talent and hard work to have achieved this at such a young age and we’re incredibly proud of her.
“Sarina (Wiegman, manager) and her team have created something special for young girls to aspire to and, as our home-grown Lioness, Jess is an absolute inspiration to all girls across our pathway programmes from Wildcats, to the Emerging Talent Centre to our Regional talent Club and York City Ladies.
“Your York family are still right behind you Jess. Myself, all of our staff, players and their families will be watching and willing Jess to make her debut and cheering the whole team on.”
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