WIRRAL-born international Jodie Taylor has urged her England Women teammates to push on for third place after heartbreaking defeat in the World Cup.

The Lionesses crashed out of the competition after defender Laura Bassett’s stoppage-time own goal sent Japan into Sunday’s final as 2-1 winners.

Japan will face the United States in Vancouver - with England playing-off against the old foe Germany for the bronze medal the previous day in Edmonton.

Jodie, who started her career at Tranmere Rovers, told her fans on Twitter: “Gutted we lost today, but so unbelievably proud of this group and what we have achieved. Now we go for 3rd place. #Proud #Lionesess #ENG.”

Jodie - who had scored in the quarter-final against hosts Canada - came desperately close in the opening minute when her shot bounced just wide of Ayumi Kaihori's goal with the Japanese keeper scrambling.

England had looked the side more likely to win for much of the second half after two soft penalties in the first 45 minutes left it 1-1 at half time.

With the game looking like it was heading for penalties, Japan suddenly launched a counter attack in the dying seconds of injury time.

Nahomi Kawasumi crossed from the right and Bassett stretched out a leg - but could only send the ball arching past the helpless England keeper.

With seconds left on the clock there was no time for a comeback, and England were knocked out in the most cruel of fashions.

Tributes to the Lionesess's performance have been flowing on social media today.

Liverpool and England striker Daniel Sturridge wrote: " @england ladies you made everyone proud of you. Hold your heads up high because you're all stars. #Lionesses"

England striker turned Match of the Day host Gary Lineker tweeted: "Despite the gut-wrenching nature of the defeat, England's women were terrific and should hold their heads high. Great effort!"

And Jess Hennessey, who plays women's football for Durham county, added: "My heart's just broken into a million pieces for Laura Bassett"