Manchester City and England legend Steph Houghton is to be inducted into the National Football Museum’s Hall of Fame.
She captained England at two World Cups and a European Championship, as well as leading Team GB at the Olympics, her playing career spanned over 20 years at Sunderland, Leeds Carnegie, Arsenal and finally Manchester City, with whom she won eight trophies.
The defender, who was the first player to reach 150 appearances in the Barclays Women’s Super League, and the first to register 100 wins in the competition, will have her induction on 12 June at the Etihad Stadium.
Houghton told mancity.com: “I’m honoured to be inducted into the National Football Museum Hall of Fame so soon after announcing my retirement from football.
“It is a prestigious list, with less than 200 players, managers and teams inducted so I am very humbled.
“I share the recognition with my team-mates, managers, coaches, club support staff and family, who have all contributed so much to my career.
“Without them then I wouldn’t have achieved the success and enjoyment that I had in football.”
Tim Desmond, CEO of the National Football Museum added: “Steph’s induction to the National Football Museum Hall of Fame is a testament to not only her career in football, but how she has carried herself through it.
“A leader on the pitch and a leading example for those she inspired along the way, she’s been at the heart of some of the most poignant and important moments in the growth of women’s football in this country, and despite setbacks along the way, has left an indelible mark on the game.