Toni Duggan expects tremendous Euro 2017 send-off for the Lionesses

Toni Duggan is confident England Women will receive a fitting Euro send-off from their growing band of supporters.

Mark Sampson’s side entertain Italy on Friday and Austria next Monday in their final two home matches before the Euro 2017 finals.

Manchester City striker Duggan will be among the 23-strong squad in Netherlands – and she knows the team will be given a rapturous reception at Port Vale and MK Dons.

She said: “The support really is important to us. I’m sure we’ll get a good send-off in these next two games.

“The crowd will get behind us and I know the girls will put in a good performance which will hopefully make people want to tune in during the Euros.”

Duggan continued: “We’ve now got a lot of diehard supporters which is great.

“People are taking a lot more notice and a lot more regularly as well. It’s not just a one-off.

“I know everyone will get behind us in the Euros, probably more than ever.”

The 25-year-old is one of six forwards in the Lionesses squad for Euro 2017 and after acknowledging England’s strength in depth, she said she is determined to play her part in the summer.

Duggan explained: “The competition for places is fierce. More fierce than ever. Every time a big tournament comes around you always hear players say that, but I look around our squad and it is the most competitive squad I’ve ever been a part of.

“We all bring something different to the table and at the end of the day we need to make sure we are providing what Mark demands and what’s required. Fortunately for Mark I think he has got strikers that can tick all the boxes.

“I just need to make sure I play to my strengths and do what I do well. If that’s what Mark needs then I’m ready for any game. As long as England get the win that’s always the main thing.”

She added: “These are exciting times. We’re quite a young group so hopefully we can stay together for the next few years.

“I genuinely believe we can achieve big things.”

Tickets for England’s April internationals are still available priced £7.50 for adults and £3.50 for children. A family ticket (two adults and two children) is available at £15 and group booking discounts apply.

Tickets can be bought via www.TheFA.com/Tickets.

Tickets for England v Italy are also available via 01782 655821, for England v Austria by calling 0333 200 5343 and in person at each club’s box office.