Leicester Midfielder Ruby Mace Discusses England Senior Call-Up

Ruby Mace, a midfielder for Leicester, shared her thoughts with BBC Radio Leicester following her initial selection for the senior England squad. Describing how she learned of her inclusion in the squad, Mace stated: “I got a message from my manager to say you’re going to get a call so make sure you pick up and I actually missed the first call. I was doing the dishwasher, so that’s why.” She recounted having to return the call, during which Sarina Wiegman informed her of the decision to bring her into the first team. Mace’s immediate reaction was, “‘Oh my God, really?’.” She expressed being surprised. She added that being called up felt “so surreal,” as it had been her aspiration “Since I was a kid it’s been my dream to be in the England first team.” Regarding her family’s response, Mace revealed: “I told my dad [first]. Me and him are very close when it comes to football, and I know it would mean the world to him. My mum cried. My dad was close to tears and couldn’t believe it. My whole family is just so proud.” Discussing the potential significance of making her debut against the USA, she commented: “If it happens, it will be a dream come true and just the start for me. But I have to push all the emotions to the side until the game’s finished.” Mace also conveyed appreciation for Leicester, stating, “I’m grateful for Leicester [giving] me the platform to showcase what I can do.” She concluded by emphasizing her intent to demonstrate her worth: “It’s now just going and showing Sarina that you called me up for a reason, I’m going to prove to you why I’ve been called up.”