Footballer Michelle Agyemang has told Sky News she followed a “disciplined” regime to cope with her studies while training for England ahead of her pivotal role in the Euros.
The 19-year-old scored two decisive goals – including one in the semi-final against Italy when England were on the brink of defeat – to help the Lionesses to victory at the Women’s Euros in Switzerland.
England retained their title after beating Spain on penalties in a dramatic final.
The Arsenal striker said she is at university studying for a degree – and still found time to fit in the work alongside England’s preparations for the Euros.
“It’s a lot of work, but you have to be disciplined in the same way you have to be in football,” she said.
“After training, go home, listen to the lecture, do some work, sometimes go in.
“I just finished my A-levels before uni, so I’m kind of into the habit of studying.”
Agyemang also spoke about her piano playing – and how she arranged to have the instrument with her at the Euros.
“The piano – it’s always great to do something to enjoy myself,” she said.
“The funny thing is I actually started off playing the guitar, but being in the church – that’s where I was playing – so learning the piano and stuff like that.
“I thought ‘why not take it with me?’ – and it was nice that it could be driven in a van.
“It was good to have that in my room right next to my bed every day.”
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A week after England lifted the trophy, Agyemang said she was back with her church community and told of the warm reception she received.
She said: “It was amazing. It was a packed service, so it was nice to see everyone and people I haven’t really spoken to before coming up to me to say ‘well done, we’re so proud of you, we were praying for you’.
“That kind of warms your heart to know that there were people that you don’t even know supporting you and looking out for you.
“It’s beautiful and I’m so happy to have that around.”
