Youth coach not surprised at Hinds' England call-up

Northampton born Taylor Hinds could make her first appearance for the Lionesses on Saturday

The former youth football coach of Arsenal player Taylor Hinds said her first call-up to the England squad came as "no surprise".

Northampton-born Hinds, 26, is in the Lionesses squad for Saturday's friendly with Brazil at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester.

The left-back came through the ranks at Northampton Town and played for England at youth level. She previously switched her international allegiance to Jamaica but had not represented them in a competitive fixture and is therefore eligible for Sarina Wiegman's side.

Lee Garlick, who leads Northampton Town's football and education programme, said Hinds' career provided "inspiration for young girls around the town".

Garlick was part of the original coaching setup at the Cobblers when Hinds trained with the club 16 years ago.

He said: "She was one of our young players, she had come through playing local and school football.

"It was clear to see she had clear potential and loved playing football.

"She shone from day-one. [It's] no surprise she's gone on to achieve great things."

Garlick said Hinds had often played mixed football and "did not shy away" from playing against boys.

"She played with an infectious smile and scored goals for fun," he said. "To see how she's gone on to forge a career is great.

"The opportunity for young girls to play football is greater than ever, so seeing someone like Taylor, who grew up in Northampton, playing at the highest level is inspiring".

Hinds played for both Everton and Liverpool before she rejoined Arsenal in the summer.

England's meeting with Brazil is one of two international friendlies for the Lionesses this month, with the back-to-back European Championship winners also set to face Australia at Derby County's Pride Park on Tuesday.

Coverage of England vs Brazil is available on BBC Sounds from 17:00 BST.