It’s not every day you get to receive words of advice from the England women’s football manager at a major tournament.

But having done just that, a schoolgirl from Taunton insists it has only made her more motivated than ever to one day try and be a part of the senior Lionesses set up herself.

Emily Syme, 17, was one of five aspiring young athletes who travelled to the Netherlands this week to watch both the England and Scotland camps train ahead of their opening Women’s European Championships clash in Utrecht on Wednesday.

The opportunity came about after Syme was this year selected as an SSE Next Generation athlete – a programme that supports 50 young athletes who have been identified as stars of the future.

The Richard Huish College pupil is already a part of the England Under-17s set up herself but admitted the chance to see at first hand how the seniors prepare and perform under pressure – plus talk with manager Mark Sampson – had been a real eye opener.

“It was incredible to watch all the players prepare and then go out and play in the match – it was a bit of a one-sided game,” said central midfielder Syme, after watching England beat Scotland comprehensively 6-0.

“I’ve been playing football for many years but this was a money can’t buy experience.

“Watching the England players train the day before the match was a particular highlight. It was interesting to see how they prepare and how they seemed more relaxed than the Scotland players.

“The England manager came up to us and talked us through their preparations and also asked questions about us and what sports we play.

“I’ve been playing for the England Under-17 team but I want to keep progressing through the teams.”

Syme’s trip to the Netherlands also saw her receive media training, experience a meet and greet with former SSE Next Generation athlete and Manchester City star Georgia Stanway, and the chance to explore Amsterdam.

Last season she balanced studying for her A-levels around playing for both Bristol City and the England Under-17 side.

But while her busy schedule demands a lot of dedication and hard work, Syme insists it’s the love of the game which keeps her going.

“I’ve made some great friends over the years playing football who I am still in contact with. It’s also a great way to stay fit, I just really enjoy it,” she added.

“I’ll be trying to impress the Under-19s coaches with England next year as there are less games in the Under-18s so I’ll be trying to go up an age group but we will see what happens. It’s also an important year with finishing my A-levels.”

Since 2013, SSE is proud to make a difference to young people, their families and their communities, by investing in the future of sporting talent through the SSE Next Generation scheme. Keep up to date @YourSSE.