Only a year later though, women’s football was outlawed by the FA who deemed it “unsuitable for females,” and, like so many other remarkable women from history, Parr faded from view as men’s football once again took centre stage after the First World War.

According to former England and Arsenal captain Faye White, the statue is a much-needed tribute to the woman who scored over 900 goals over the course of her 32-year career, and paved the way for the England Lionesses, who play in the World Cup this weekend.

“I think it’s a huge moment because it shows the focus on us and the credibility of the women’s game,” she explained.

“I think it’s great we’re looking at the history and appreciating the history to show where the game has come from and where it is getting to because in the last five years or so there has been so much more interest in the game.”

Movingly, the official unveiling was a real family affair, with Parr’s cousin, June Patten, taking charge of the big reveal.

“I am very proud and pleased that’s she’s receiving this recognition,” she remarked, before explaining that her cousin would have been taken aback to witness her fame if she was alive to see it today.

“Knowing our Lil, her language would be choice and she would think, ‘What the hell’s this fuss about?’ if she saw it. She was very modest about her achievements.

“We as a family didn’t think about her as a footballer, she was just our Lil.”

Image; Getty

Lily Parr statue unveiled: At long last, the first female star of football is honoured