Wales Women: Do Shaun Lean players get enough playing time?

There is no doubt that the Celtic challenge will play a big role. The cross-border competition is now in its third year, with Lightning and Thunder already producing international players.

The ambition at FIFA is that the two regions can tempt Welsh players struggling to get game time to return home.

“It’s been so amazing for me and a lot of the other girls, just another opportunity to play,” Metcalf said.

“I’ve grown so much in the last couple of years and I know this year will be even bigger again. It’ll be amazing to be a part of that too.”

As part of its latest consultation, FIFA said it would provide additional funding to both sides – along with a new league comprising four clubs, a national academy and player development centres.

“This is a long-term commitment by the WRU because we can see the opportunities ahead of us,” Bennett said.

“We need to make sure we provide a future for players, for eight-year-old girls just as much as we do for eight-year-old boys who want to pull on the shirt and play for Wales.

“This is done through a clear, coherent and accessible path and system that delivers the success we so desperately want.”