Women's World Cup 2023: 'I'd love to be one for the next generation to look up to' - Abbie Larkin

When the Republic of Ireland's World Cup squad was announced there were lots of tears - both happy and sad.

For Abbie Larkin, it was the stuff of dreams.

The 18-year-old is the youngest member of Vera Pauw's squad and, despite her tender years, she is already a role model for the next generation.

"It's such a fairytale, a dream come true really," said Larkin.

"The girls back home are shouting my name, asking for pictures and autographs and I'm like 'this is amazing'.

"Even at my home club, the amount of girls who know me is crazy. I never would have thought that, especially at this age. It's an amazing feeling and I'm honoured to be able to have that feeling. I'm grateful and will never take that stuff for granted."

When the forward was asked if being a role model was important, she replied: "100%, that's my goal. I'd love to be one for the next generation to look up to."

The teenager is one of four forwards named in the Republic's 23-strong squad, with three reserves also making the trip to Australia.

Larkin has seven caps for the Republic of Ireland's senior side, and scored her first goal during their 9-0 victory away to Georgia in June 2022.

The Dubliner moved to Shamrock Rovers after a successful season at Shelbourne in which they became National League and FAI Cup champions.

"I don't think any words can describe it. It's just an amazing feeling and, at this age, I would have never of expected it," added Larkin.

"When Vera said it to us, I literally started crying and then some of the girls started crying as well and I was like, 'oh my God, I can't stop these tears from coming out'.

"Then I called my dad - he started crying, then my mum started crying! It was a bunch of tears, but happy