PRINCE William met the “team behind the team” at England’s training headquarters as he supported their campaign for World Cup glory this summer.
William, who is the Patron of The Football Association, spent time with staff working behind the scenes under manager Thomas Tuchel.
He met with coaches and analysts shaping tactics and performance at St George’s Park earlier this month.
The prince also spoke to the medical, nutrition and sports science teams responsible for player welfare and recovery.
He met those managing the complex logistics of international football, including travel, security and kit staff who ensure the squad has everything it needs to perform at the highest level.
The Prince of Wales told them: “You don’t get as much acknowledgement or credit as you deserve.
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“Not everyone gets to see all the hard work you put in.
“The success of the players is from the foundations you build, so thank you.
“All of the things are coming in a line now: the Lionesses’ successes they’ve had, two men’s Euros finals, it feels like we are closing in on that ambition.
“Go with my blessings and my best wishes to all of you.
“Enjoy it, look after each other and give your best. I’m sure we will do well, so good luck.”
Posting video of the visit on X, the England account said: “Meeting the team behind the team.
“We had a special visit from His Royal Highness Prince William at St. George’s Park as preparations continue for the FIFA World Cup.”
William and Kate opened £105million St George’s Park in 2012.
St George’s Park, just outside Burton-on-Trent in Staffordshire, has 11 outdoor pitches, world class gym and medical facilities.
It also has the exact same grass measurements as Wembley.
It acts as the training base for all 24 England football teams, male and female.
Keen Aston Villa fan Will said at the time: “It will be far more than just a world class training facility for our future world-beating national team.
“It is more than just a university from which thousands of highly qualified coaches will graduate.
“It is also a magnificent example of the sort of social initiative that brings opportunity and purpose to wider British life.”
Last year, William William gave a surprise send-off to the Lionesses before they flew off to the Euros.
The Prince of Wales presented the team with their shirts at the FA’s St George’s Park ahead of their journey to Switzerland.
