Isobel Christiansen has spoken of her desire for England to “dominate” their Euro 2017 qualifying group.
The 24-year-old made her Lionesses debut, and scored, as Mark Sampson’s side ran out comfortable 8-0 winners over Estonia in their opening qualifier.
Fellow debutant Danielle Carter hit the headlines with a hat-trick, while goalkeeper Mary Earps and defender Gilly Flaherty were both in the squad for just the second time.
Isobel Christiansen in action against Estonia in Tallinn
Christiansen believes the newcomers slotted in seamlessly – and then urged her World Cup bronze medal-winning team-mates to retain control of Group 7.
She said: “We spoke a lot about starting this European campaign on the front foot and I think we ticked that box.
“We proved against Estonia that we’ve got some new players in the squad that can reach the high standards the girls set in Canada.
“Moving forward, this squad will carry on improving.
“We want to dominate our qualifying group and make sure we reach Euro 2017 in style.”
Manchester City star Christiansen netted England’s fifth goal against Estonia.
GOAL: Pick that out! @IzzyChr17 nets her maiden #Lionesses goal in style against Estonia.
https://t.co/6khUt79V5h
— England (@england) September 21, 2015
Jo Potter’s shot was blocked and the ball ricocheted out to the edge of the box.
Christiansen took a touch to steady herself and then rifled a half-volley into the far corner for a stunning debut strike.
She said: “It was an indescribable feeling. To hit the back of the net on your England debut; I can’t even begin to describe how amazing that felt.
“I thought to myself ‘I need to hit this and I need to keep it under the bar’.
“It was great when the ball dropped for me and I managed to keep it down. Thankfully it went in the bottom corner so obviously I was delighted to get my name on the scoresheet.”
Christiansen continued: “I’d like to think it will be the first of many, but I need to keep working hard at my club and keep improving.
“I’m desperate to be a part of this team moving forward.”
Danielle Carter led the way against Estonia with a hat-trick
Christiansen was deployed in the traditional No10 role, behind front pair Carter and Jess Clarke, and she thanked her new international colleagues for helping her to shine in Tallinn.
She said: “It was a really professional performance from the girls. We had a great week of training, we bonded well and it was a good result to round it all off.
“It was a really enjoyable game to play in. As a forward-thinking midfielder it’s always good to have loads of possession. You want to get on the ball and make things happen.
“I really enjoyed the role Mark gave me, but I couldn’t have performed without the girls around me. They did a great job as well.”
