20 Questions with Jessie Gale

1) You're packing your suitcase for the World Cup. What is one essential item that you're packing?

My retainers!

2) What is one luxury item you’re packing?

A pack of Lotus biscuits!

3) You’re boarding the plane to Poland. How do you like to pass the time on a plane journey?

It depends who I’m next to. If I’m next to Eve Annets, we’ll probably be talking the whole time but I do like to knock off on a plane – I like to have a sleep.

4) Who do you usually sit with on the plane?

I’d sit next to Eve Annets. Me and her can talk for hours!

5) What is your favourite thing about staying in a hotel and what do you look for in a hotel?

A good bath. It’s the first thing I check for.

6) Who would be your roommate?

I would share with Eve. However, she snores!

7) How do you spend your down-time on camp?

Call my family, have a bath. I like to watch YouTube – Molly Mae and things like that. Just spending a bit of me time really. Cup of tea and chill out.

8) What kind of character or personality would you say you are in the group?

Probably one of the loudest. I’m always looking to bring energy and just try and make everyone laugh as much as I can.

9) What do you miss most from home when you’re away?

Of course, my family. We’re used to that a little bit with being away, but I still miss them.

10) What is your favourite meal to eat on camp?

Steak. I like when the chef makes steak. We got made steak once and it was the best thing ever. He makes dessert sometimes, if we’re lucky!

11) What is your pre-match routine?

Do my hair and make-up, have pancakes and chill.

12) What genre of music do you listen to before a game? Do you have a favourite song or album?

I’ve got different playlists for different occasions. On the way there, I listen to my chill playlist, so a bit of Drake, PartyNextDoor – that type of vibe. Then on the way back, I go into my slower playlist which is more country music, winding down a little bit.

13) What do you enjoy most about being on camp?

Being around my friends, just being around people that you love and going out and playing for England every day is pretty special.

14) What is your favourite memory representing England?

My first World Cup!

15) What is your favourite memory following England as a fan?

It’s got to be winning the EUROs last year. Especially as some of them are now my really good friends. Seeing that was really special.

16) How would you describe how you’re feeling heading into the tournament?

Just excited. I think we’re all feeling the same. A bit nervous but definitely excitement overrules it. A rush of adrenaline is all I can describe it as.

17) How would you describe getting the opportunity to pull on an England shirt?

I still find it quite overwhelming, the thought that you’re representing your country that so many people support and look up to. It’s overwhelming but it’s a sense of pride.

18) How did you receive news of the call-up?

I was on camp in Spain with Newcastle. I was with the girls and I said, ‘she’s calling me!” Then she told me I was picked, so it was pretty crazy. It was nice because I went back in and the girls had found out and were clapping me as I came in.

19) Have you visited Poland before?

We have been to Poland a few times – I’ve been there twice.

20) What would your younger self have said to you right now?

Don’t take anything for granted now. We’ve all worked so hard to be here and sometimes we forget to enjoy it in the moment. Just enjoy it because there aren’t many World Cups that come about.