LIONESSES FULL OF HOPE

GRANT OVERCOMES GRIEF

SUNDERLAND boss Jack Ross has hailed Grant Leadbitter’s courage after he overcame family tragedy to inspire his hometown club to a Wembley play-off final.

The Black Cats face Charlton on Sunday for a place in the Championship.

But hours before last Thursday’s semi-final at This is how it’s done, Vincent:

Liverpool (1985-1990)

Won the Double in his first season, scoring the winner in a 1-0 defeat of Chelsea to secure the league title at the expense of rivals Everton. Dalglish

(right) won two more league titles and an

FA Cup before finally hanging up his boots after five years as

Reds player-boss. Portsmouth, Leadbitter’s mum Susan lost her battle against cancer. The 33-year-old (left) chose to play, having kept the news from everyone bar Ross and captain George Honeyman. Ross said: “He gave a performance he and his family can be proud of. It’s a difficult time for him but he’s really focused on helping us.” FORMER England boss Hope Powell believes the Lionesses have never been more ready for a shot at World Cup glory.

Phil Neville’s team head for France next month among the favourites. And Powell, in charge of the national team for 15 years, insists huge strides have been made.

Several of her senior players, such as Steph Houghton, Jill Scott, Karen Carney (right) and Karen Bardsley are in the squad.

Powell said: “We have a really good side and work that was done before laid a foundation for what we are seeing now. It is very exciting.

“Having a pro league helps, as it gives us a realistic chance of doing well in France.” NEWCASTLE, Southampton and Brighton are all tracking Liverpool winger Harry Wilson.

Derby, who have the 22-year-old (left) on loan, are also keen, as are Hertha Berlin and Augsburg in Germany, as well as clubs in Spain.