New research reveals that eight members of the 2025 Lionesses squad rank among the top 10 most influential female players.
The team inspired a 56% increase in women and girls playing football between 2020 and 2024, but which player shines as the standout influence?
The most influential Lioness players ranked for 2025
New research from Outdoor Toys analysed Instagram data to find out which Lioness has the most dedicated fanbase, revealing who’s seen as the most influential player online.
The 10 most influential Lionesses players:
| Rank | Player | Instagram Followers* |
| 1 | Leah Williamson | 1,100,000 |
| 2 | Chloe Kelly | 918,000 |
| 3 | Alessia Russo | 870,000 |
| 4 | Lauren James | 850,000 |
| 5 | Lucy Bronze | 796,000 |
| 6 | Mary Earps | 782,000 |
| 7 | Ella Toone | 734,000 |
| 8 | Alex Greenwood | 559,000 |
| 9 | Beth Mead | 548,000 |
| 10 | Millie Bright | 452,000 |
* Instagram following data collected 07/04/25
Leah Williamson tops the list as the most influential Lioness, with 1.1M Instagram followers. She cemented her place in football history by captaining England to victory at Euro 2022. She’ll lead the team again next month as they defend their European crown. Off the pitch, she champions LGBTQ+ rights, co-writes children’s books, and is even training to be an accountant, proving she’s just as inspiring beyond football.
Chloe Kelly ranks second with a 918,000-strong fan base on Instagram. Her winning goal delivered one of the most memorable moments in England’s Euros 2022 final, establishing her status as a national hero. Since then, she’s delivered consistently under pressure, scoring match-winning penalties in shootouts against Brazil and Nigeria. Her openness about mental health and determination to fight for playing time only add to her status as one of football’s most inspiring figures.
Alessia Russo is third, with 870,000 dedicated Instagram followers. Her unforgettable backheel in the Euro 2022 semi-final was one of the tournament’s standout moments. Since becoming England’s starting striker, she’s scored crucial goals at the 2023 World Cup and shared the WSL Golden Boot last season. Now a Champions League winner with Arsenal, Russo’s rise from impact sub to leading forward makes her a true inspiration to aspiring players.