Bend it Like Beckham inspires footballer's career

Professional footballer Riya Mannu has said she was inspired to take up the sport by her favourite film, Bend It Like Beckham.

The 18-year-old is the first South Asian woman to play league football for Birmingham City FC.

She made her debut for the club this season, and said she was trying to be a role model for young players who may follow her.

Mannu said the lack of role models when she was younger was partly why the film meant so much to her.

She said: "It's my favourite film for a number of reasons, because it shows the South Asian culture in a positive way and her [Jess, played by Parminder Nagra] parents actually do support her eventually and it shows that parents actually do support South Asian young players.

She added that she could not have become a footballer without the strong support network around her, thanks to her family.

"My club have been great - the only worry for me was just playing football and just scoring goals and just playing it because I love the sport." she said.

Mannu spoke to presenter Naga Munchetty as part of BBC Radio 5 Live's Names Will Be Made programme.

Broadcasting from Loughborough University, the home of the new Women in Sport Research and Innovation Hub, it brought together more than 30 elite athletes, rising stars, and leading experts for an in-depth exploration of women's sport.

"At 5 Live, we're passionate about giving women's sport the platform it deserves," Controller Heidi Dawson said.

"Names Will Be Made Live is a chance to amplify the voices driving change, challenging outdated thinking, and inspiring the next generation."

Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.