Surbiton Ladies skipper Sarah Haycroft might have missed out on being part of England’s EuroHockey winning squad, but she insists competition for places is only good for the team’s Olympic hopes.

The 24-year-old had to watch from England’s training base at Bisham Abbey as clubmates Georgie Twigg, Hollie Webb and Giselle Ansley helped their country claim gold with victory over Holland atthe Olympic Park last month.

But Haycroft, who is back in harness with her club for the current WHL Premier Division campaign, believes all the players who missed out will be working hard to make the plane bound for Brazil next year.

“All of the girls who were back at our base Bisham Abbey, training hard, are delighted for the team but equally desperate to earn a place in the squad for the forthcoming tournaments and ultimately the Olympics,” said the former Kingston Grammar School student.

“It is a strange dynamic, but one that just comes with the territory of elite sport.

“We love our team-mates, but equally want to beat them to a place in the team. We build team cohesion yet compete directly for places.

“However, having healthy competition and such strength in depth as a squad, only makes us stronger as a nation, and helps the tournament team win medals.”

Jo Hunter’s double and other goals from Jenna Woolven, Sarah Page and Charlotte Calnan secured a first WHL Premier Division win of the season for Surbiton on Saturday as they beat Buckingham 5-0 at Sugden Road.

They host Canterbury, who are yet to conceded a goal this term on Saturday.