Houghton joined Leeds in 2007

England coach Hope Powell says Leeds Carnegie Ladies midfielder Steph Houghton can return from knee ligament damage an even better player.

The 21-year-old will miss Euro 2009 because of the injury, which came just two years after a broken leg kept her out of the World Cup.

"I was devastated for both Steph and the team as she's a big loss," Powell told BBC Radio Leeds."

"She has the qualities to return stronger to play at the highest level."

The former Sunderland player, who signed for Leeds in 2007, is expected to be out until at least February after undergoing an operation to correct the damage.

Powell, speaking at a West Riding County FA event to promote female coaching, added: "It's very unfortunate and I've told her she has to take her time to recovery correctly.

"She's of the mind set that she wants to play at the very highest level and I know she can do that, she's already proved it with the England Under-21s.

"She may not want to hear this but the key is not to rush back too quickly, time is very much on her side.

"We all wish her a healthily and steady recovery."

One Leeds player that could feature in the Euros is midfielder Jess Clarke.

She has come through the Leeds academy and her performances at England at Under-15, 17 and 19 level have seen her break into the senior squad.

"Jess has developed through the youth system and has earned the right to be in the senior squad," Powell said.

"She is showing vast potential and she has to fulfil that now.

"She has a lot to learn, but I'd say that about a lot of players, even more experienced ones.

"But I think if she goes along the right path and listens to her manager at Leeds [Rick Passmore] then she can only develop into potentially a really decent player."

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