9. Ellen White

A highly-promising English striker who started out at the Gunners’ Academy, Ellen joined Arsenal Ladies from Leeds Carnegie and is already representing her country at the top level.

She made her first senior squad appearance for the Three Lions in March 2010 and going one better with a fantastic goal against Japan at the World Cup in Germany.

She scored 11 goals in her first 17 appearances for the Club.

Q&A

Which player most inspired you and why?
I think Mia Hamm really inspired me in terms of her amazing scoring record and also she was probably one of the most widely-recognised female footballers when I was growing up.
 
Which coach most inspired you?
I have been very privileged to be coached by some amazing male and female coaches of the game. They have all influenced my career massively, including Mark Drabwell, Rick Passmoor, Mo Marley, Hope Powell and Laura Harvey. But I also have to say my mum, dad and brother have been hugely influential as well in coaching me, inspiring me and being my biggest supporters.
 
What was the best advice they gave you?
Keep your feet on the ground!
 
Best player you’ve played with?
I think that would have to be Kelly Smith, she is the best women's footballer in this country and a lovely person off the field as well. 
 
Toughest opponent?
I think it would have to be Lyon, I have never seen such a fantastic women's football team at club level. But I also have to mention Japan and France who were extremely tough opponents in the 2011 Women's World Cup.
 
What are your memories of your first club as a child?
I played for my local boys team, Aylesbury Town, when I was growing up and absolutely loved it. The boys on my team were amazing and always stuck up for me. I was heartbroken when I couldn't play in their team anymore but I went to play for Arsenal Ladies Under-10s (at the centre of excellence), which was unbelievable.
 
What tip would you give a young player hoping to succeed?
I think the main thing is that you love and enjoy playing football. Make sure you give 110 per cent and know you couldn't give any more.
 
What was the experience of playing in a youth final tournament?
The experience was invaluable as you are exposed to playing numerous international games in a short period of time. It also enables you to understand the demands of being an international player and for me, heightened the 'fire in my belly' of how much I love playing football for my country and how hard I needed to work to continue to progress into the senior team. The heartbreak of losing in the final also made me see how badly I want to win things in an England shirt, but ultimately it was a very proud moment being part of that team as we came such a long way together and had done so well to get to the final. It's a moment I will never forget.