Ella Toone, England striker, returned to training after her father Nick's death, honoring his passion for women's football. The 26‑year‑old marked his legacy by launching the ET7 Academy with fiancé Joe Bunney, a former Bolton player, offering a new pathway for young girls in 2025 and supporting future talent each season.

Nick, a lifelong supporter, watched Toone’s matches from pubs and screens, recording highlights for later discussion. After England’s 2-1 win over Germany in 2022, he was secretly diagnosed with prostate cancer, a fact she learned only after his death in September 2024, which shattered their family unity and strengthened his.

Toone’s wedding in July intertwines grief and celebration; she will have her uncle Dan escort her while her father’s chair is capped. Friends like Alessia Russo will serve as maid of honour, yet football chants are forbidden, keeping the ceremony distinct from the sport that shaped her in heart today.

Despite the match schedules of England’s World Cup run, Toone insists the wedding day remains a private milestone. She will not watch the game, prioritising family over football. The event highlights her resilience, the enduring influence of her father, and the new opportunities his legacy creates for future players today.