Rochdale-born footballer Keira Walsh has been named in the King’s New Year Honours list, receiving an MBE for her services to the sport.
The 28-year-old midfielder is among four Lionesses to receive the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, alongside Alex Greenwood, Georgia Stanway and Ella Toone. England captain Leah Williamson was awarded a CBE, while national team manager Sarina Wiegman received an honorary damehood.
Walsh, who has earned 97 caps for England, was a key player in the Lionesses’ back-to-back European Championship victories in 2022 and 2024. She was named player of the match in the 2022 final and has since become a leading figure in the women’s game.
Originally from Rochdale, Walsh began playing football at the age of five and joined boys’ teams with the support of her parents, Tracy and Peter. Her career began at Blackburn Rovers before moving to Manchester City in 2014. She later played for Barcelona, before joining Chelsea in January 2024, where she now serves as vice-captain.
Since moving to Chelsea, Walsh has added a domestic treble to her honours, winning the Women’s Super League, FA Cup and League Cup in 2024. Her international career includes not only England duties but also representing Great Britain at the Olympics.
Speaking to Chelsea’s club website, Walsh highlighted the importance of visibility in sport: “When you have that visibility, girls know they can become it... If girls enjoy playing football and they just want to do it to make friends and to have fun, then they just need the opportunity to do that.”
Walsh and her teammates have become ambassadors for the future of women’s football. Their influence off the pitch continues to grow, with outreach efforts encouraging young girls to take up the sport, regardless of whether they wish to pursue it professionally.
Following this summer’s European triumph, a mural of Walsh in her England kit was painted at the Inavate Centre in central Rochdale, a tribute to her achievements and roots in the town.
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