Fran Kirby shook off suggestions she might feel intimidated by the new faces in England’s camp after she returned from her long absence in the 1-0 victory over Belgium on Friday.
Kirby had not played for England since the Lionesses faced the Czech Republic in a friendly last October and missed this year’s World Cup after undergoing knee surgery.
The Chelsea midfielder received a warm reception by the sold-out crowd in Leicester when she came on in the 65th minute of the Nations League clash.
Kirby said: “It feels like I haven’t been away. Obviously, I know a lot of the girls from playing against them.
“Everyone who has come in has brought a fresh face and a new standard. It has been nice to be in training around them and getting to know them more personally.
“I don’t think I need to mould in at all, I’m probably one of the oldest players here now. I think I know what I’m doing.
“It’s nice to be on the pitch, it’s nice to get a win, so I’m happy.
“I’ve been working really hard over the summer to try and get back as quickly as possible and to be involved tonight was really special.”
