Sunday 14 February 2016 16:45, UK
England travel to the inaugural She Believes Cup in the United States next month aiming to prove their historic Women’s World Cup campaign was no fluke, says star forward Eni Aluko.
England face European rivals Germany and France after a clash against host nation and world champions on March 3 at the Raymond James Stadium, home of NFL team Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The Lionesses captured the hearts of the nation with their run to the semi-finals at Canada 2015, which ended with an extra-time win over Germany as they came home with Women's World Cup bronze.
That made Mark Sampson's side the most successful senior England team ever to have played tournament football overseas and Chelsea forward Aluko is keen for the Lionesses to build on that momentum going forward.
"It was just so special for everyone involved," Aluko told Sky Sports at the 2016 British Ethnic Diversity Sports Awards, hosted by Sporting Equals.
"To be part of history like that is incredible. That was bigger than just winning a football match.
"There will always be that pressure on us now that we are bronze medallists and the best team in Europe at the moment.
"That comes with pressure, but we just need to make sure we keep performing and keep trying to win football matches to prove that it wasn't a fluke."
Aluko, who was the joint highest scorer in World Cup qualifying with 13 goals, spent three years playing in the States earlier in her career.
She added: "I don't know if I have been selected yet, but America has a very special place in my heart.
"Playing against the three top nations in the world will be an amazing experience for everyone. We know we are a good team and we must use this tournament to make sure we are ready for next year's European Championships."
