Mark Sampson believes his England side will use the hurt of their Euro 2017 exit to help propel them to new heights.
The Lionesses were knocked out at the semi-final stage by host nation and eventual winners Netherlands.
England won all three group matches and defeated the much-fancied France, for the first time in 43 years, in the quarter final.
And now Sampson says their summer disappointment can fuel their assault on World Cup qualification, which begins against Russia next week.
He said: “Being eliminated at the semi-final stage of the European Championship was a low point, and the team were devastated.
“The emotions in that changing room after the final whistle were as tough an experience as I, and I’m sure all the team, have had after a defeat.
“In football and in life it is, however, these experiences, as tough as they are, that define us.
“Our ability to learn from that experience will allow us to move forward again and reach levels we have never reached before.
“With the character we have in this team I am certain that will be the case and there will be many, many more special nights for the Lionesses and our fans to enjoy.
“We want to make memories for the team and the fans, and Euro 2017 gave us many memories to treasure for a lifetime.”
England entertain Russia, fellow Euro 2017 finalists, at Tranmere Rovers’ Prenton Park on Tuesday 19 September.
Sampson led the Lionesses to a bronze medal at Canada 2015 by beating Germany, for the first time, in the third-place play-off.
He added: “This match against Russia marks the start of our World Cup qualifying campaign.
“They competed well at the European Championship.
“It will be a difficult challenge for us and we’ll have to prepare well.”
Tickets for the Russia match are priced £10 for adults and £1 for children, and can be bought via TheFA.com/Tickets, by calling 03330 144452 (option 1) or in person at Prenton Park.
