Ebony Salmon insists his place in the England squad proves his move to the United States was well worth the risk.
The 22-year-old had a breakthrough in 2022, scoring nine goals in 12 games after moving to Houston Dash and was named on the squad list for the last three England call-ups.
“Any move is a bit of a risk, but it was worth it,” Salmon said sky sports from her home in Texas before leaving for the Arnold Clark Cup.
“Since the move I’ve been in the best shape I’ve ever had, it’s allowed me to be called up to England on a regular basis and I’m in a better position because of that.”
Salmon is back with the England squad as they prepare for games against South Korea, Italy and Belgium in the Arnold Clark Cup
Salmon left Bristol City to join Racing Louisville in 2021, much to the disappointment of a number of WSL clubs keen to sign one of England’s brightest young talents.
After starting out strong in Kentucky, Salmon lost her spot on the starting squad and was eventually traded to Houston Dash, where her form saw her become one of the NWSL’s most ruthless forwards.
“It was a risk to move. I didn’t know much about the league, I didn’t know much about the club [Racing Louisville] I was moving, but at the time, it made the most sense.
“It was definitely a risk, but it definitely paid off.”
England’s No.9 shirt is up for grabs after the retirement of Ellen White, Alessia Russo and Rachel Daly starting England’s last two matches.
Salmon made his England debut in February 2021 but has yet to start a game for his country
Salmon admits the battle to make the World Cup squad is fierce, evident after Sarina Wiegman opted to drop in-form Bethany England for her Arnold Clark Cup squad.
“There is always competition, there are always a few names that will change. There is a competitive opportunity because we all want to make the World Cup. It’s good for England to have that.
“It’s the longest time I’ve been in camps in England, but I never want to be too settled. Anything can happen, so I just have to put myself in the best position to be called up every time.”
Preparations for the World Cup have been marred by reports that the Saudi tourism authority may be sponsoring the tournament.
US striker Alex Morgan called the development “bizarre”, pointing to the country’s rights record. Salmon admits they have to trust the sporting authorities will act appropriately.
“Inevitably it’s something to think about, but for us players it’s out of our control,” admits Salmon.
“You don’t want to spend too much time thinking about it and stressing yourself out even though it’s a big issue that affects a lot of people.
“We have to focus on the football side and trust people who focus on the other side.”
Salmon impressed during his time at Bristol City, which sparked interest from clubs across Europe and the United States.
Salmon insists she found a new home in Houston, although jokingly she would never develop a southern drawl or start wearing a Stetson.
Her primary goal as an honorary Texan is to build on her club’s first-ever playoff appearance and win the club’s first NWSL title.
“Last year we put ourselves in a good position and showed people what we were capable of.
“We’ve made it clear what kind of team we want to be, we want to go all the way, we want to win championships.”
Not only will scoring goals and winning trophies please the people of Houston, but it could also guarantee Salmon a seat on the plane to Australia for the World Cup this summer.
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