Lionesses Euro's Squad Announced
Sarina Wiegman has named her 23 player contingent that will host the Euro's this summer.
Wiegman has selected 23 of her 28 strong provisional squad to take forward in the home tournament.
Captain Leah Williamson will lead the Lionesses out to kick off the tournament at Old Trafford in just 3 weeks time. Alongside Williamson will be vice-captain Millie Bright of Chelsea and Manchester City's Ellen White,
Three goalkeepers have been selected, Manchester United's Mary Earps, Aston Villa's Hannah Hampton and Manchester City's Ellie Roebuck, who has enjoyed a highly successful domestic spell since returning from injury earlier this year.
England's defence will include Manchester City's Alex Greenwood and Demi Stokes, as well as right back Lucy Bronze who has just announced her departure from the club. Jess Carter of Chelsea and Lotte Wubben-Moy of Arsenal have also been named, as has Houston Dash forward Rachel Daly who will likely play along the backline once again.
Making up the midfield is Wiegman's "go-to" Manchester United playmaker Ella Toone, as well as Bayern Munich's Georgia Stanway, Chelsea's Fran Kirby, Manchester City's Keira Walsh and England legend Jill Scott.
Along the wings are zippy aggressors Chloe Kelly, Lauren Hemp and Beth Mead who will play alongside Manchester United's Alessia Russo and Chelsea's Bethany England through the middle.
The five players who have unfortunately missed out on selection are Everton's Sandy MacIver, Chelsea's Niamh Charles, Manchester United's Katie Zelem and Lucy Staniforth. Former captain Steph Houghton also misses out after being sidelined with injury for the majority of the season.
Head coach Sarina Wiegman commented,
“I am excited by what is possible for this group. We all know this is a huge opportunity and it is one we have to grab with both hands. The chance to represent the nation on such a big stage on home soil is one to relish. This group so far has proven they are prepared to give it all they have in every training session, in every meeting and in every game.
“Making the final selection is always difficult because we know the talent and commitment of every single player. All 28 players have all been superb on and off the pitch, since I started. I am certain those we have had to disappoint will give everything to support us and be ready if called upon.
“Of course, we hope to avoid any setbacks before we start against Austria but we know where we can turn in case we need a replacement. Togetherness is a big part of what we are all about and from every player in the squad to my superb support team, and with the strong backing of everyone at The FA and our fans, we are committed to make it a summer to remember.”
The Lionesses will play Belgium in a friendly tomorrow at Molineux Stadium. Kick off is at 8pm and coverage will begin at 7:15pm on ITV4.