Millie’s milestone: Turner makes England debut

Her long-awaited debut came in the 80th minute, when our no.21 replaced her former club team-mate Alex Greenwood for the remaining 10 minutes. 

It has been a tale of patience for Turner, who received her first call-up in 2020, but had to wait four years to step out onto the pitch for her homeland. 

She was the second Red to achieve this milestone during the international break, with Grace Clinton - currently on loan at Spurs - also earning her first England cap.

We are forever proud of you, @MillieTurner_ ❤️

Make sure to enjoy this moment, you deserve every second 💫#MUWomen || #Lionesses pic.twitter.com/MFkUuUqEdP

— Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) February 27, 2024

“I can’t even put into words. I’m so grateful - I’m just buzzing! - to make my debut,” Turner said at full-time. 

“I’ve just not stopped smiling, not stopped laughing [at camp], these girls are just unbelievable. I can’t thank everyone enough and Sarina [Wiegman] for giving [me] this opportunity.”

Many of Millie’s team-mates congratulated our no.21 on her debut, with Mary Earps writing on her Instagram story: “Congratulations on your debut @millieturner_, so so so chuffed for you!”

Earps and Clinton both started the Italy game, while Ella Toone preceded Turner in coming off the bench. Our no.7 scored the Lionesses' fourth goal of an emphatic 5-1 win, with a sweet volley into the top corner.

Meanwhile, Maya Le Tissier - who played a full 90 minutes in Friday's 7-2 win over Austria - was an unused substitute last night.

Congratulations on your debut, Millie!

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 @EllaToone99 made that look so easy 😮‍💨 pic.twitter.com/gAhzM9VcHM

— Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) February 27, 2024