Who is Anouk Denton? West Ham youngster breaking into the England team | OneFootball

West Ham defender Anouk Denton made her Lionesses debut this week and she could become a regular feature in the team with lack of defensive cover.

The centre back earned a first call-up to Sarina Wiegman’s team after injuries ravaged the squad.

Who is Anouk Denton?

Anouk Denton has always looked like she would reach the highest heights of women’s football from a young age.

The defender joined Arsenal academy at just 13-years-old and after making her way through the ranks she made her senior debut in 2020 at just 17.

Denton then spent a brief spell on loan at West Ham before leaving England altogether in favour of a move to America.

The England talent returned home in 2023 where she secured her first professional contract with West Ham.

In the last two years with the Hammers, Denton has become an essential part of her team’s defence. After making 50 appearances for the club, Denton was finally rewarded with a first England call-up this month.

Denton earns first international call-up

England were struck with a serious injury crisis towards the end of this year.

Arsenal duo Katie Reid and Leah Williamson were both ruled out of the final international break with injuries.

Jess Carter was also left out of the team shortly after winning the NWSL with Gotham FC.

But not everyone lost out due to the injuries, as the lack of defensive cover led Sarina Wiegman to calling up Anouk Denton.

The West Ham star didn’t feature in England’s record breaking 8-0 win over China, but just three days later she made her international debut.

Denton came on for Lucy Bronze in the 72nd minute agains Ghana.

The 22-year-old impressed in her brief time on the field and she could now be considered for future squads after a good start.

The Lionesses begin their World Cup qualifying campaign in March next year and Denton will be hoping to make her competitive debut early in 2026.