Hemp, Miedema plus 'the best midfielder in the world' among players to watch

So who are the players that supporters should be watching out for at the Euros?

Ex-Leeds United star Lucy Ward spoke to talkSPORT.com to give her recommendations.

Lauren Hemp [England and Man City]

The 21-year-old England winger looks a genuine contender to be the star of the summer.

After winning the PFA's young female player of the year in 2018, 2019 and 2020, the Manchester City star has been backed by Ward to be a real standout performer.

Ward said: "I think that she's just fearless and that's what you need in a forward player.

"She showed for Manchester City and for England that she's not afraid of these excellent opponents from around the world, so she's one to watch for England."

Alexia Putellas [Spain and Barcelona]

The Barcelona star is approaching the Euros in her absolute prime.

At 28 years of age, the forward is regarded as one of the top players in world football after winning last year's Ballon d'Or and the Best Fifa Women's Player.

Ward said: "Spain are the bookies' favourites and they've got Alexia Putellas who is arguably the best player in the world in their midfield.

"Most of their squad is made up of Barcelona players and obviously we know how good Barcelona are."

Ada Hegerberg [Norway and Lyon]

After five years away, the 26-year-old striker will be hoping to make a huge impact at this summer's Euros.

Regarded as arguably the best striker in the world, the Lyon star will be key in Norway's hopes of winning the competition after scoring a goal and an assist to help the French side to Champions League glory this year, her sixth title in the competition.

Ward said: "Ada Hegerberg, who plays for Norway has just gone back into the Norway set-up after five years after issues with their equality and how their football federation worked, but she's one of the best forwards in the world so it'll be really interesting to see how she comes back into it.

"Norway, along with Sweden are my dark horses for the tournament. No one is really talking about them but they've got the players to win the tournament."

Marie-Antoinette Katoto [France and Paris Saint-Germain]

The 22-year-old forward is a serious contender to be the competition's golden boot winner.

Averaging a goal per game for Paris Saint-Germain last season, Katoto could make all the difference for France as they look to secure the European crown.

Ward said: "France have got Marie-Antoinette Katoto who could be one of the stars.

"If they can get it together, they will be a force to be reckoned with."

Vivianne Miedema [Netherlands and Arsenal]

A familiar face to supporters of the Women's Super League.

Miedema already holds the goalscoring record in the WSL and for the Netherlands, having bagged 94 goals in 111 international matches so far.

A familiar face for Arsenal fans, the 25-year-old will be hoping to take the European championships by storm.

If she can do that then the Dutch have a very good chance of enjoying a strong tournament.