The 40-year-old former right back is thrilled with the advances that have been made in the female game in recent years but she still thinks there is progress to be made.

She told Big Issue magazine: “I’m so proud to be part of the generation of Lionesses that fought for central contracts and funding.

“It’s amazing that women’s football has come from a place where people laughed about it to where it is now. I love it. Because football is for everyone.

“And I’m never going to stop fighting for that.

“But there is still a long way to go to keep changing perceptions.”

The Football Focus presenter doesn’t view herself as a “pioneer” because there is still so much change needed.

She said: “I don’t see myself as a pioneer.

“The moment I would see myself in such a way is when it all changes.

“There’s still so much more to fight for to help that next generation – and I feel like I am in a position to use my platform so that, in the future where hopefully I have kids, they won’t have to fight like I’ve had to in my life.

“Then they can just go out and live life full of joy.”