Katie Robinson admits she nearly didn’t answer the call when England coach Sarina Wiegman rang to tell her she’d been called into the Lionesses’ squad for the first time.
The 20-year-old has been included in the squad for friendlies against Norway and Japan later this month following some impressive early-season performances for Albion.
“It was quite a shock,” she said. “A random number came up and I don’t always answer those but luckily I did.
“She just said she’d been impressed with how I was playing and wanted to give me an opportunity to see what I can do at senior level.”
Katie’s first call after speaking to Wiegman was to her mum Sharon, who lives in Cornwall.
“It meant a lot to her and it was quite emotional, because she knows how much I’ve aspired to play for England from an early age.”
Robinson has been a regular for England under-23s and is looking forward to showcasing her talent with the European champions.
“I’ve been pleased with my form for the club this season,” she said. “I’ve worked a lot in the last few months on being braver and more confident on the ball. The 23s was a different environment and obviously going into the full squad for the first time is a big step up but I’m really excited to have the opportunity.”
Robinson joined Albion in 2020 from Bristol City but her first season at the club ended prematurely after she needed knee surgery. Earlier this year she spent time on loan with Charlton and has been a regular in the WSL this season, scoring her first goal in the 2-1 win over Reading in September.
There will be at least one familiar face in the squad after former Albion defender Maya Le Tissier was called up for the first time. The pair have known each other since they played regional football together in the south-west as 12-year-olds. “It’s extra special that we’ve come all the way from under-12s to being in the same England squad for the first time,” added Robinson.
Wiegman says Robinson has ‘qualities’ which she wants to see at close quarters. “She has done well for the under-23s and we’d really like to see her in our environment, at the top level, to see if she can compete with other players in her position. She has speed and wants to go forward and is goal orientated. Hopefully she can compete quickly and do well.”