Powell welcomes patient approach

Powell is on the brink of her second World Cup campaign - and fifth major finals - 13 years after being handed the coaching reins by the Football Association.

However, much like Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United, it took Powell some time to get a grip on the enormity of the job.

Seven years elapsed before she steered England to the European championship quarter-finals, during which time she laid the platform for a more progressive period that culminated with a final appearance at the last Euros in 2009.

That improvement has continued, allowing Powell to repay the faith her employer has shown in her.

"The good thing about women's football is that we are given time to work, nurture and embed a philosophy," said Powell.

"If it was the same attitude some people in men's football have, certainly on my initial results in the very beginning, I am sure I would have been sacked."

With England installed as one of the favourites in Germany, it appears Powell's name can be added to that of Ferguson, Arsene Wenger and David Moyes on the list of glaring examples that show continuity breeds success.

"I don't agree with the philosophy that you get the sack if you lose five matches on the trot," said Powell.

"It doesn't help the development of players and I hope we never go that way. I don't believe that is good for football.

"You need a certain amount of time and practice to embed a philosophy that will improve players. Anybody who knows that understands the importance of continuity.

"Look at Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger. It is not an accident."

Powell does seem to have got preparations spot-on, given England overcame World Cup favourite the United States in an April friendly, and subsequently defeated Sweden as well to emphasise its well-being.

Skipper Faye White and influential midfielder Fara Williams have overcome injuries too, leaving Powell's team feeling confident ahead of a group programme that starts in Wolfsburg against Mexico and also features matches against New Zealand and Japan.

And whilst Powell is irritated by the lack of media exposure her players receive outside a major tournament, she does accept winning a World Cup in the national sport would be a significant achievement.

"As a country we are desperate for success," she said.

"In the 13 years I have been here, this squad is stronger than it has ever been.

"The disadvantage is that we have not been paired with any European teams, who we know inside-out.

"It has been quite challenging to get information about the opposition but that has been done and now we are ready to go."