Sarina Wiegman says she immersed herself in English tradition earlier than taking cost of the Lionesses and leaving her native Holland.
There was debate over whether or not Gareth Southgate’s successor must be English if the Three Lions boss decides to go away his position following England’s exit from the World Cup.
However Dutch coach Wiegman, who made historical past by successful the Euros with two international locations, admitted she thought of her nationality earlier than taking the job however doesn’t imagine it has held her again.
Sarina Wiegman made historical past by successful the euros with two completely different nations
The 53-year-old took the Lionesses to their first main trophy at Wembley in July
‘I considered it after I first bought in touch with England once they reached out to me. I used to be head coach of Holland, however my first thought was can I depart the Netherlands [as a country], I grew up there, it’s my nation.
‘England is an enormous soccer nation, the WSL, the potential of the crew, so I began to have conversations.
‘Once I bought there I attempted to know extra about your tradition – though the international locations are actually shut collectively there are some variations in tradition so I actually tried to be taught. I took some English lessons in soccer.
She additionally received the European Championships together with her native Netherlands aspect in 2017
‘I mentioned “I’ll find out about your tradition and try to adapt to your tradition however the directness you need to know what is sweet, I can’t go round it or change that.”
‘I believe it went very well and we actually loved ourselves, I believe we are able to nonetheless develop so much. I believe the FA and the gamers and employees get pleasure from it too and suppose we’ve got an excellent collaboration.’
In the meantime, former Lionesses star and file goalscorer Ellen White introduced she is anticipating a baby with husband Callum Convery in April subsequent 12 months.
‘I simply need to congratulate her however I haven’t had the time to name her but,’ Wiegman mentioned. ‘I’m very comfortable for them.’
