ASH Harrison believes England’s success at the Women’s World Cup will result in an upturn in the amount of girls looking to play the sport.

Harrison is the assistant manager of the Hullbridge Sports under-16 girls.

And he is hoping that Sports will be able to attract new recruits as a result of Phil Neville’s Lionesses progressing in France.

The former Canvey Island goalkeeper said: “There was a big push after the last Women’s World Cup and everyone hopes it will be the same again this time.

“We have lost a few players since the end of the season and we are looking to replace them.

“There are not that many girls teams compared to boys teams and so it is harder for girls to find a club to join.

“As you go through the age groups, the amount of girls teams goes down, but the majority of the girls in our team have been together since they were quite young.

“We are Hullbridge’s only remaining girls team and we are hoping to follow on from the men’s first team success - as they won the Essex Senior League title - last season.”

Captain Steph Houghton and central defensive partner Millie Bright are major doubts for tonight’s quarter-final with Norway.

Houghton was injured in the Lionesses’ heated 3-0 win over Cameroon in the last-16 tie, while Bright has a virus.

But Harrison has backed Neville’s side to become world champions.

“They have not been at their best and the game against Cameroon was a farce,” added Harrison.

“England did well to keep their cool and the referee lost control.

“I think they will beat Norway and they have a great chance of winning the competition.

“USA are the favourites but they haven’t been that great either and anything can happen in knockout football.

“I can see England going all the way and hopefully they will win the World Cup.”

Hullbridge’s under-16 girls are holding an open trials day ahead of the new season.

The side are looking for additional players in various positions.

If you are currently in Year 9 or 10, take part in the open trials day from 10.30am-12.30pm at the Ryan’s Heating Stadium on July 6.

Alternatively, attend a midweek training session on Thursdays from 7pm-8pm.

For more information on how to join, call 07889 657469.