Influencers, authors and fitness instructors: Meet the women backing England at the Euros in Germany

The saying, “Behind every successful man is a strong woman”, may sound like a cliche. But when it’s applied to the world of men’s football, it’s more than fitting. Over the years, the wives and girlfriends of the England team have often had culture-shaping careers, like Victoria Beckham and her fashion empire, Peter Crouch’s wife, Abbey Clancy and her successful presenting career, or Coleen Rooney and her super-sleuthing investigative skills.

With the 2024 Euros now under way, there is a generation of women behind the men in Gareth Southgate’s 26-man England squad, who have successful careers and pursuits of their own. Find out everything you need to know about them, below.

Alison Southgate, Gareth Southgate’s wife

Southgate has said his “secret weapon” is his wife Alison, one of the main reasons the England manager actively encourages his players to prioritise quality time with their families.

Alison, 57, met Southgate when