‘Like a Champions League win’ - Kendall’s memorable evening for England

“Her celebration was worthy of a Champions League triumph,” noted England boss Sarina Wiegman with a smile.

To Lucia Kendall, the moment felt just as significant.

The England boss was commenting on the instant the Villa player celebrated wildly following her debut international strike – during the opening stages of a win over Ghana at St Mary's Stadium.

“The ground staff might need to repair that turf!” she joked, referring to Kendall’s immaculate knee slide.

Rising to her feet amidst her celebrating colleagues, the young player displayed an expression of utter disbelief.

A Dream Return to St Mary's

Kendall was “part of the furniture” at Southampton – a club where she had spent a decade, graduating from their academy and making 103 games before moving to Villa in July.

So when she saw the ball hit the back of the net at St Mary's Stadium on her return, and on only her third England cap, it was the stuff of dreams.

“It was a truly special moment to achieve this here, in my hometown. This place forged the player I am,” Kendall stated.

“It felt like it was written [in the stars]. It was so special. I got overwhelmed with emotion really.”

A Rapid Rise to Prominence

While Southampton was instrumental in her development, a significant choice at 15 determined her trajectory.

Despite being a talented cricketer (her father played for Hampshire), the impending demands of senior football at Southampton forced her hand. She selected football.

“It was an interesting one. There was no time for me to do both anymore,” Kendall commented in a recent media conference.

“Growing up, I had a passion for cricket. The decision was genuinely tough. I went back and forth, but when the time came, I understood I enjoy football a bit more.”

Growing up admiring Chelsea and Frank Lampard’s goal-getting midfield exploits, Kendall is starting her own path with similar attacking instincts.

Her ability to manage first-team football alongside a psychology degree was evidence of the mental fortitude and dedication required for the top level.

Southampton held onto their prized asset as long as possible, but upon her contract expiry, Villa brought her in to the WSL.

Within months the Winchester-born player has established herself, becoming a regular in the top flight and earning a place in the England squad.

“She shows consistency and that's not easy when you just come into a new environment and into the WSL with Aston Villa,” noted Wiegman.

“The pace of her rise has been breathtaking, yet she maintains her performance standard, proving her quality impressively.”

Kendall certainly enjoyed herself at St Mary's, striking the crossbar later in the first half and almost teeing up Villa team-mate Missy Bo Kearns for a goal, before Alessia Russo added a second with an injury-time penalty.

She was substituted after an hour to a cheer from the home crowd and the enthusiastic voice of the stadium announcer proclaiming that she was “Southampton's very own”.

Having netted 29 times for Southampton during her long tenure, she reflected, “My early exposure to senior football there from 16 set me up perfectly.

“It was the consistent trust they showed in me as a player and the belief. I felt like I was ready for [the next step].

“Entering the England setup, I was aware I had to demonstrate my worth. The increased pace felt like a step up in class.”

‘Technically and Tactically, She Is a Very Strong Midfielder’

Her smooth transition to the international stage has led to praise for her innate midfield qualities and effortless demeanour.

While mindful of protecting her young star, Wiegman is unworried due to Kendall’s humble and professional attitude.

Shortly after her maiden call-up, she spoke to reporters, expressing a desire to contribute while acknowledging the importance of the collective.

According to Russo, Kendall’s integration was so smooth it seemed she’d was a veteran presence.

“{This team's just gone on to win back-to