England Women CALL OFF bonus row talks to 'fully focus on World Cup'

England women's team have written an open letter confirming they have put talks on hold with the FA over bonus payments ahead of the World Cup getting underway this week.

The Lionesses have been at loggerheads with the governing body after Mail Sport revealed earlier this month that players will not receive any bonuses no matter how far they progress in the tournament.

There has been no breakthrough in negotiations since, and with England set to play their first game against Haiti on Saturday, the team have released a joint statement confirming discussions have been paused for now.

The letter read: 'Last year we presented the FA with concerns related to our bonus and commercial structures. The hope was that discussions would lead to a resolution before the commencement of our World Cup.

'We are disappointed that a resolution has still not been achieved. We view the successful of these discussions, through player input and a transparent long term plan, as key for the growth of Women's Football in England.

'With our opening game on the horizon, we Lionesses have decided to pause discussions, with full intentions of revisiting them following the tournament.

'We collectively feel a strong sense of responsibility to grow the game. And while our focus now switches fully to the tournament ahead, we believe every tackle, pass, and goal, will contribute to the work we are committed to doing off the pitch.

'We look forward to playing for our country this World Cup, with pride, passion, and perseverance.'

The letter was signed by the entire squad, with skipper Millie Bright posting it on her social media.

The FA's stance on bonuses is in contrast to FIFA, with each player competing in the group stage set to receive £26,000 from the international governing body.

This reward will increase for players who reach the latter stages of the tournament, as every player in the winning team will pocket £211,000.

England will believe they can go all the way this year in Australia and New Zealand after winning the Euros in 2022.

Despite injuries to captain Leah Williamson, Beth Mead and Fran Kirby, Sarina Wiegman's team are still one of the favourites for the eagerly-anticipated tournament.

The Lionesses have been placed in a group with Haiti, Denmark and China, and will be aiming to make serene progress through to the knockout stages.

England have made the semi-finals of the last two World Cups, but have their sights set on going one step further this time around.

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