Big future on the cards for Lionesses debutant Clinton

Grace Clinton is a star in the making.

The Tottenham loanee earned her first caps for England during the international break, starting in friendlies against Austria — against whom she scored after 19 minutes — and Italy.

And her performances for the Lionesses will have come as no surprise to those who have watched her closely for Spurs in the Women's Super League this season.

Ahead of today's North London derby, we assess Clinton's superb campaign so far.

England emergence

Breaking into the England team was a deserved reward for Clinton, who has scored four goals and provided two assists in 13 WSL appearances this season.

And Sarina Wiegman was clearly impressed by the newcomer.

The Lionesses boss said: "She plays like a natural. She wants to have the ball. She picks up the things we talk about very quickly and that's what you see on the pitch too.

"It was a new role for her so we did some tactics and some individual things and you can tell she takes things on board. She just goes out there and plays."

Clinton, 20, has often played on the left flank for Tottenham but operated in a more central role for England.

She said: "I can't even describe it to be honest, it feels amazing. I found out on Thursday night [I was starting].

"Throughout the week you might have an idea but I couldn't believe it. It's surreal but you work so hard to get these moments so you really have to soak it in."

Grace-ful Clinton

Having already demonstrated impressive levels of maturity and tactical adaptability, Clinton will hope to become an England regular in the years to come.

It has been a rapid rise to prominence for the Liverpudlian, who is on loan at Spurs from Manchester United.

She spent last season on loan at Championship winners Bristol City, proving far too good for that level.

And she has continued to develop this term, with no player in the WSL completing more successful take-ons than Clinton (48) ahead of Matchday 15, while she ranked in the top 10 for progressive carries (42).

With eight goal-creating actions to her name, she is undoubtedly one of the most difficult players to defend against in the country.

Exciting prospect

On her current trajectory, Clinton is on track to become a key player for the Red Devils from the beginning of next season.

For now, though, her focus will be on a successful end to the campaign at Tottenham.

Another eye-catching display against rivals Arsenal would only add to her growing reputation as one of the brightest prospects in the league.

And more England caps could follow as Clinton further develops her already well-rounded game.