Karen Carney: England's Lauren Hemp is world class. It's time to call her that

Former England international Karen Carney has made a compelling case for recognising Lauren Hemp as truly world class, asserting it is high time the footballing world acknowledged her elite status. In an exclusive column for The Athletic, Carney, herself a decorated former winger, meticulously broke down the attributes that elevate the Manchester City and Lionesses forward to the pinnacle of the sport. Her insights offer a profound appreciation for a player whose consistent brilliance often flies under the radar compared to some of her more widely celebrated peers.

Carney’s analysis zeroes in on Hemp’s electrifying blend of raw athleticism and refined technical skill. She highlights Hemp’s devastating pace, a weapon that can turn defence into attack in an instant and consistently terrorise opposition full-backs. Beyond sheer speed, Carney praises Hemp’s exceptional dribbling ability, noting her close control even at full tilt, allowing her to navigate tight spaces and beat multiple defenders with apparent ease. This combination of explosiveness and precision makes her a nightmare to mark, creating chances not only for herself but for her teammates through intelligent delivery into the box.

Furthermore, Carney underscores Hemp’s remarkable end product, a crucial metric for any attacking player. Her goal contributions, both in terms of scoring and assisting, have steadily climbed, reflecting an increasing maturity and clinical edge in the final third. Carney suggests that Hemp possesses an innate understanding of space and timing, enabling her to make decisive runs and arrive in dangerous areas. Her defensive work rate also earns plaudits, illustrating a commitment to the team's collective effort that belies her attacking flair. This all-round contribution, Carney argues, is a hallmark of truly world-class talent – a player who influences the game in multiple phases.

For England and Manchester City, Hemp's consistent impact is undeniable. She has become an indispensable figure for both, delivering match-winning moments on the biggest stages. Carney's column serves as a powerful endorsement, urging fans, pundits, and coaches alike to move beyond simply acknowledging Hemp’s potential and instead embrace the reality of her current standing. Her performances speak for themselves, and as Carney so eloquently puts it, it’s time to afford Lauren Hemp the world-class label she has demonstrably earned through her consistent, high-level displays.