Durham Women are delighted to confirm that defender Grace Ayre has earned a maiden call-up to the England Under-23 squad.
Ayre, who was initially named on the standby list, will now team-up with the Young Lionesses for their double header of fixtures against Portugal and Belgium.
It’s a proud moment for both player and club, with the 21-year-old having progressed through Durham’s Regional Talent Club.
Commenting on the call-up, Head of Football Lee Sanders said: “We’re all delighted for Grace and it’s just rewards for her hard work – not just this season, but her focus and determination since she first came into the RTC.
“Credit has to go to the youth coaching staff at the time who brought her into the club from grassroots football.
“She came into our RTC a little bit later, at around 15-years-old, and she has steadily progressed through our pathway system, partner clubs and the WSL Academy team until we felt the time was right for her to come into the first team.
“It’s exciting for the club and everyone involved that Grace has got this call-up and we hope she enjoys the experience.”
First-team coach Claire Ditchburn added: “It is without doubt well deserved and an acknowledgment of Grace’s great performances so far this season, as well as recognition of the excellent work from many people at the club who have supported and helped Grace on her journey so far.
“Hopefully, it’s the first of many!”
Ayre is the third player from the side to team-up with her nation during the international break, with Sarah Robson (Northern Ireland) and Maria Farrugia (Malta) also handed call-ups.
