England Women’s U17 duo Gabrielle George and Mollie Rouse are savouring the experience of appearing in a European Championship Finals on home soil.
The two Young Lions played the full 80 minutes as Lois Fidler’s side slipped to a 1-0 defeat by Italy in Tuesday’s opening game in Telford.
Despite the result, Aston Villa midfielder Rouse and Manchester United centre back George said they are enjoying this unique opportunity.
Lois Fidler on England's Euro start
Rouse, who celebrated her 15th birthday on Wednesday, told UEFA.com: "It’s such a good experience.
"We’re all really close and we have a laugh but we know when to be serious. I miss my family but it’s so good to be here."
George added: "It will help me develop so much – playing in front of crowds and playing against some of the best people in Europe. Hopefully I can stay at this standard and move on."
England take on Austria in Chesterfield on Friday (7pm kick-off) and both players are confident they can bounce back from the Italy loss and get their first points on the board.
Rouse said: "I’ve been thinking about how I can improve from the last game and what things we did well as a team to take into the next game."
