Maya Le Tissier: My Favourite England XI

In the latest edition of our ongoing series, it's Maya Le Tissier's turn to select her favourite England XI.

The Manchester United defender has played at international level with several Euro 2022 winners, making her senior debut later in the same calendar year as that triumph at Wembley. She was then named on Sarina Wiegman's standby list for last summer's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Unsurprisingly, then, the side she has selected features a few of her current team-mates, as well as legends of the past and a number of male players.

Goalkeeper: Mary Earps

She's the best in the world so that's an easy one. That's going to be my easiest pick. She's had an incredible couple of years and is a fantastic team-mate.

Right-back: Alex Scott

I actually handed Alex the FA Cup trophy when Arsenal beat Chelsea in 2016. I was 14. Dan Carter scored, who went on to become my team-mate at Brighton. I never forget because when I played in the final in 2023 she was also there presenting, which was so weird. I'll have Alex in my back four.

Centre-back: Steph Houghton

When I was younger I looked up to Steph so much. She was the player I wanted to be like. She was really, really good.

Centre-back: Rio Ferdinand

Rio was Man Utd as well so I'll get him in there. He was always a big performer for England and one of the best in his position in the world.

Left-back: Lucy Bronze

She might be out of position but Bronzey has to be in my team. She's been incredible for England for such a long time.

Centre-midfield: Steven Gerrard

I loved the way Gerrard played the game. The work ethic, the goals he scored. You knew that your team were never out of the game when he was on the pitch. He was just great.

Centre-midfield: Jude Bellingham

Jude is insane. Completely insane. What a player. And it should only be the start of his journey in an England shirt.

Centre-midfield: Alex Scott

I'm picking two Alex Scotts in my team. The male Alex Scott will play for England one day, 100%, so I might as well get that one in early and say I called it. We're both from Guernsey, we grew up really close together and played for the same team. We spent a lot of time together as kids.

Right-wing: David Beckham

Beckham is an all-time England icon. He has to be in down the right. His free-kicks would be enough to get him in the side but he was also a great captain and played all over the world.

Striker: Kelly Smith

She's a legend. She scored so many goals for England. Playing for nearly 20 years at senior level is an incredible effort and she is someone the current Lionesses aspire to be as successful as.

Left-wing: Lauren Hemp

Hempy is still such a good performer for England. She played a massive role at the Euros and in the World Cup and is another who I hope has much more still to do for the Lionesses.