Nikita Parris on her academy

The 24-year-old was raised in Toxteth on Merseyside, and has opened the academy to offer a chance to girls from deprived areas of Liverpool. 

Speaking to 'BBC Sport' after setting a new league-goalscoring record, Parris remarked: "That community gave me life and gave me an opportunity - that's what I want to do for these girls. 

"I want to give them an opportunity to be successful in whatever they choose. Within inner city areas, there's always good and bad. You've got to be in and around the right people.

"It's because of the people in that area that I am where I am today. People in my area put in the time and effort with me, especially my teachers at school and my youth leaders.

"The course itself didn't target just football players - it targeted all girls across Liverpool to come and get involved in women's sport," the 24-year-old added.

"Sometimes, when we talk about football, we automatically think players, but it's important to understand there are many different roles that football can be a part of.

"I always wanted to help develop the next generation of people involved in women's sport. But it didn't have to be players - it could be doctors, it could be physiotherapists, it could be coaches.

"I am really proud of it. I've always wanted to give back to women's sport, because it's played a massive part in my life."