Steph Houghton spoke of a “dream come true” after being named the permanent captain of the England Women’s team.
The 25-year-old was appointed by head coach Mark Sampson ahead of Saturday’s World Cup qualifier against Montenegro in Brighton.
Houghton has captained her country twice before, against Norway in January and against Canada in the Cyprus Cup last month and will replace former skipper Casey Stoney.
England v Montenegro
FIFA Women's World Cup 2015
Group 6 qualifier
12.55pm, Saturday 5 April
Amex Stadium, Brighton & Hove Albion
Live on BBC Two
She said: “It’s a dream come true. To wear an England shirt and to captain your country is something I’ve dreamed of since I was a little girl.
“You always think about it when you’re younger. I was captain of the U20s a few times and was delighted with that, but to be made England captain… I just can’t stop smiling.
“I’m a hardworking, honest player. On the pitch I just try to lead by example whether that’s with the armband or without. I just want to pull on an England shirt and do the best for my country.
“We have such a talented group of girls, a squad that’s dying to get to a World Cup. To put on the armband and lead them out will be a tremendous honour.”
Houghton was recently named captain at her new club, FA WSL newcomers Manchester City.
She led her former side Arsenal to glory in last season's FA Women’s Cup and FA WSL Continental Cup and she believes that experience will stand her in good stead as she prepares to lead the Three Lions.
She explained: “That experience will help me a lot. I was quite young when I was given the armband for Arsenal. Unfortunately, Kelly [Smith] was injured for most of the season, so to go and win an FA Cup and a League Cup was amazing for myself and for the club.
“I learnt a lot in that period of time and I’ve grown a lot as a person and a player. Hopefully that helps me in the new role.”
Houghton made her senior team debut against Russia in 2007 and has gone on to earn 44 caps. She made a name for herself as part of Team GB at London 2012 when she scored three group stage goals – including a memorable winner against Brazil at Wembley.
The Durham native has played in a variety of positions for her country but has recently found her home at centre back, where she is beginning to strike up a sound understanding with Liverpool’s Lucy Bronze.
And Houghton will look to two celebrated central defenders to help her in her new role – Stoney and Faye White, as well as Arsenal player-coach Smith.
Houghton added: “You look at those three players and they are massive role models for our sport.
“All three of them have helped me throughout my career. When I first came into the squad, Faye was the first person to come up to me, welcomed me and settled me down when I was 17 and that means a lot.
“If I was to be half a captain as those three then I’d be pretty chuffed. They are amazing people and if I wanted advice I know I could count on them.”
Watch the full FATV interview with Houghton above
