Ellen White believes the Arnold Clark Cup provides the ideal preparation for England ahead of this summer’s home Women’s Euros.

City striker White, who became the Lionesses’ all-time record goalscorer in November, overtaking Kelly Smith’s record, is one of nine Blues to have been selected in Sarina Wiegman’s 24-strong squad for February’s inaugural, round-robin tournament.

With the Lionesses locking horns with three of the world’s top ten nations in Spain, Germany and Janine Beckie’s Olympic gold medallists Canada, the hosts’ trophy-winning credentials will be given a thorough examination.

Having starred for Team GB at the Summer Olympics, White has vast experience of what it takes to perform on the big stage and says she and her teammates are relishing the prospect.

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“We’re really looking forward to it,” she told mancity.com.

“We’re playing some very good teams and it’s going to be a big test for us, facing Spain, Germany and Canada.

“They all play in different styles as well, which will put us in good stead for the Euros.

“It’s hard when you get too far ahead so I always try to stay focused, but it is an exciting time for us and for women’s football.

“The fact the tournament is going to be held in England so people can come to watch the games and see so many talented players in person will be amazing.

“It’s going to be a lot of fun.”

With huge games for City on the horizon too, including another Manchester Derby and the eagerly-awaited Continental Cup Final, there is plenty to look forward to over the coming weeks for both Club and country.

Though naturally excited to be contesting such high-profile fixtures, White insists she and the team are remaining grounded, keeping emotions in check and focusing on the tasks at hand.

“We have a big few months coming up,” she added, “but we can’t get too ahead of ourselves.

“We just have to focus on what we can control. It’s important that as individuals and collectively, we stay focused.

“Behind-closed-doors, we just focus on each game as it comes. Of course, we’re excited but we have to remain professional.

“As a team, we’ll work hard to execute our gameplan and hopefully, we can continue to put in really big performances that our fans, families and everyone at the Club can be proud of.

“We have big games coming up, including a Cup Final, and we need to get more points on the board in the league. That’s the priority.”