Interim Lionesses manager, Hege Riise, has been named as the head coach for Team GB ahead of the Olympic games. Team GB News Hege Riise Named as Team GB Head Coach Interim Lionesses manager, Hege Riise, has been named as the head coach for Team GB ahead of the Olympic games. via The FA 8 April 2021 By Charlotte Stacey Riise will lead the squad to their second Olympics in Tokyo this summer. The Norwegian has a tall order in selecting her team with only a limited eighteen places up for grabs. Competition is hot for players in contention as Riise is able to select a cohort comprised of those from England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The FA have listed three crucial criteria in regards to selection – • Physical condition - Team GB could play six games in seventeen days in warm weather, humidity. Players must also cope with heavy travelling schedules. • Mental toughness – dealing with the pressure of a prestigious global competition and potential setbacks during the throughout. • Versatility – with only eighteen places a, players available, players must be willing and able to adapt to positions that are not necessarily preferred. It is likely that the squad will largely be comprised of English names as this is the squad Riise is most familiar with. Veterans such as Steph Houghton, Jill Scott and Lucy Bronze, could very well find themselves on the plane to Japan. However, there are a large number of candidates hailing from the home nations that should not be overlooked. Scotland’s Kim Little is often regarded as one of the most difficult players to come up against in the world. Similarly Welsh midfielder, Jess Fishlock, brings with her a wealth of experience in navigating some of the most prolific oppositions. Others in contention could include Scots Erin Cuthbert, Caroline Weir and Lisa Evans, all of whom continue to impress in the Women’s Super League. Wales captain and Chelsea’s springboard holding midfielder, Sophie Ingle, and North Carolina Courage bound Welsh midfielder, Angharad James, may also make the cut. Everton and Northern Ireland international, Simone Magill, could also be on the shortlist. Riise will be assisted by Canadian bronze medallist, Rhian Wilkinson, with another coach set to be named soon. The squad is expected to be announced in early May. Four other players will travel with the team as reserves.

Latest Lionesses squad announced for October training camp. Lionesses October Squad Announced Back Latest Lionesses squad announced for October training camp. Steve Bardens Tuesday, 13 October 2020 By Charlotte Stacey Phil Neville has unveiled the Lionesses squad that will take on Germany in a friendly later in the month. Neville has selected a 28 strong squad for the trip to Wiesbaden, naming a mixture of experience, youth and new faces. Four goalkeepers are amongst the cohort, with Manchester City’s Ellie Roebuck, Everton’s Sandy MacIver and Birmingham City’s Hannah Hampton, being called up alongside the cool experience of Chelsea’s Carly Telford. A mammoth ten defenders have been named to bolster defensive lines. Manchester City’s Lucy Bronze, Alex Greenwood and Demi Stokes, Chelsea’s Millie Bright, Manchester United’s Abbie McManus and Arsenal’s Leah Williamson will find themselves under the watchful eye of captain Steph Houghton. Houston Dash captain, Rachel Daly, although typically a forward player for her club, may also find herself reinforcing the back line. In the middle, Everton’s Izzy Christiansen could make her first appearance since March 2019 and Manchester City’s Jill Scott could potentially hit a milestone 150 caps. City’s Keira Walsh will likely hold down the midfield, whilst Georgia Stanway and Chelsea’s newly fit Fran Kirby, may sit slightly further upfield to jump start Neville’s hordes of attacking options. Neville’s forward selection includes player of the season Beth England, Arsenal’s wing master Beth Mead and City’s ever-trusted Ellen White. Youngster’s Chloe Kelly and Alessia Russo may potentially make an appearance in the starting eleven; both have proven their attacking prowess with their domestic clubs since the beginning of the season. Lyon’s Nikita Parris finds herself back on the team sheet after quarantine restrictions kept her from September’s training camp. Potential debutants include defenders Millie Turner, Esme Morgan, Grace Fisk as well as the more attackingly minded Ella Toone and Niamh Charles, all of whom impressed during last month’s camp. Notable absences include Atlético Madrid’s Toni Duggan and Jade Moore, Lyon’s Jodie Taylor and Arsenal’s Jordan Nobbs, who picked up a slight injury in an earlier league game. Manchester United’s Lucy Staniforth and Katie Zelem are also absent, the latter of whom is still on the road to full fitness after testing positive for Coronavirus in September. The Lionesses will have a point to prove after a lacklustre performance at the SheBelieves Cup in March, in which they finished in a disappointing third place. Of the upcoming match, Neville commented, “Germany are currently ranked second in the world so there’s no doubt it will be a tough test for us. But a vital one as we measure our progress against one of the best teams in the world. It will give us a clear idea of where we’re at in terms of our squad depth and development as we prepare for the home UEFA Euro in 2022.” The Lionesses will face Germany on Tuesday 27th October at 3pm. Full Squad: GK: Hannah Hampton, Sandy MacIver, Ellie Roebuck, Carly Telford DF: Millie Bright, Lucy Bronze, Grace Fisk, Alex Greenwood, Steph Houghton, Abbie McManus, Esme Morgan, Demi Stokes, Millie Turner, Leah Williamson MF: Niamh Charles, Izzy Christiansen, Fran Kirby, Jill Scott, Georgia Stanway, Ella Toone, Keira Walsh FW: Rachel Daly, Beth England, Chloe Kelly, Beth Mead, Alessia Russo, Nikita Parris, Ellen White

The Lionesses will host the very First Arnold Clark Cup, a round-robin style tournament featuring four nations Arnold Clark Cup: Bumper Guide Back The Lionesses will host the very First Arnold Clark Cup, a round-robin style tournament featuring four nations On Her Side Wednesday, 16 February 2022 By Charlotte Stacey England, Canada, Germany and Spain will compete in its inaugural year with the action kicking off on Thursday 17th February at Riverside Stadium, Middlesbrough. The next games will be played on 20th February at Carrow Road, Norwich and the final fixtures will take place on 23rd February at Molineux, Wolverhampton. Each team will face each other once and the winner will be determined by the number of points accumulated. The tournament will serve as an excellent exercise for the three European sides who will be taking part in the Euro’s this summer, also hosted in England. The announced squads are as follows: England Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses will hugely benefit from this tournament in regard to pinpointing areas of improvement. In their recent fixtures, the Lionesses have faced lower ranked sides and have won these with incredibly large scorelines. Whilst it’s great to win, these fixtures do not offer a true reflection, almost creating a false impression of how the team may perform when coming up against more challenging opponents. The Lionesses will be without captain Steph Houghton and striker Bethany England who are both absent through injury. Squad: GK: Mary Earps, Hannah Hampton, Ellie Roebuck DF: Millie Bright, Lucy Bronze, Jess Carter, Niamh Charles, Rachel Daly, Alex Greenwood, Demi Stokes, Leah Williamson, Lotte Wubben-Moy MF: Fran Kirby, Jordan Nobbs, Jill Scott, Georgia Stanway, Keira Walsh, Katie Zelem FW: Lauren Hemp, Beth Mead, Nikita Parris, Alessia Russo, Ella Toone, Ellen White One to watch: Manchester City’s Lauren Hemp does not only set the Women’s Super League alight. The winger is quick, aggressive and devious, simply a relentless headache that defenders have a hard time shaking. Hemp has consistently demonstrated her talent on both the domestic and international stage and will no doubt prove to be one of the Lionesses most important assets once again. Canada Boss Bev Priestman was the first to announce her team, with 18 of her 23-strong squad part of the side that won last years Olympic Games. Priestman boasts an impressive side calling upon personnel from leagues all over the world including Shelina Zadorsky, Jessie Fleming, Janine Beckie and Deanne Rose of the Women’s Super League. Canada will be without skipper Christine Sinclair who has withdrawn for personal reasons, as well as goalkeeper Stephanie Labbé who has recently announced her retirement from international football. Squad: GK: Sabrina D’Angelo, Devon Kerr, Erin McLeod, Kailen Sheridan DF: Kadeisha Buchanan, Vanessa Gilles, Shelina Zadorsky, Gabrielle Carle, Allysha Chapman, Jayde Riviere, Sura Yekka MFs: Marie-Yasmine Alidou D’Anjou, Jessie Fleming, Julia Grosso, Ashley Lawrence, Victoria Pickett, Quinn, Sophie Schmidt, Desiree Scott FW: Janine Beckie, Tanya Boychuk, Jordyn Huitema, Cloe Lacasse, Nichelle Prince, Deanne Rose One to watch: PSG’s Ashley Lawrence is widely considered one of the best fullbacks in the world. Her performance at the Olympics rightly pricked up the ears of many as she asserted herself as one of Canada’s key players in both attacking phases and defensive security in play. Lawrence will no doubt be a handful to contend with throughout the tournament. Germany Two-time World Cup winner’s Germany have named a 25 strong squad to compete in the Arnold Clark Cup. Head coach Martina Voss-Tecklenburg has had a fairly turbulent tenure with the national side having been knocked out of the quarter finals of the World Cup in 2019 and subsequently failing to qualify for last years Olympics. Germany will be without several staple players for this tournament including captain Alex Popp, Chelsea’s Melanie Leupolz, Bayern Munich's Sydney Lohmann and Lyon's Dzsenifer Marozsan. Squad: GK: Ann-Katrin Berger, Merle Frohms, Almuth Schult DF: Sara Doorsoun, Jana Feldkamp, Giulia Gwinn, Sophia Kleinherne, Sarai Linder, Lena Oberdorf, Maximiliane Rall, Felicitas Rauch MF: Nicole Anyone, Jule Brand, Klara Buhl, Selina Cerci, Sara Dabritz, Linda Dallmann, Fabienne Dongus, Laura Freigang, Svenja Huth, Lena Latein, Lina Magull, Ramona Petzelberger FW: Sjoeke Nusken, Lea Schuller One to watch: 19-year-old Jule Brand is certainly a player to look out for throughout this tournament. The winger caused Arsenal trouble during the Champions League knockout stages with her on-the-ball dynamism and deft touch that is as adroit with both feet. Brand has just signed a three-year deal with German side Wolfsburg from Hoffenheim. Spain Spain head into this tournament as possibly the most exciting side to watch. The named squad has a heavy Barcelona contingent, the absolute dominant force in Europe right now. As Spanish football goes from strength-to-strength so too does Jorge Vilda’s national side who will prove difficult opposition for all involved in the Arnold Clark Cup. Spain will be without captain Irene Paredes, as well as midfielder Claudia Zornoza who had to leave camp after receiving her first call up in six years. Squad: GK: Sandra Panos, Lola Gallardo, Misa Rodriguez DF: Mapi Leon, Leila Ouahabi, Andrea Pereira, Ivana Andres, Ona Batlle, Laia Aleixandri, Olga Carmona MF: Alexia Putellas, Patri Guijarro, Aitana Bonmati, Irene Guerrero, Claudia Pina FW: Jennifer Hermoso, Mariona Caldentey, Lucia Garcia, Esther Gonzalez, Marta Cardona, Nerea Eizagirre, Amaiur Sarriegi One to watch: Alexia Putellas is a player that captures your attention and refuses to let it go. Her sheer grace in operating the midfield is mesmerising and is made all the more striking by her ability to generate chance after chance with a vision and technical ability that can only be marvelled at. The midfielder is undoubtably one of the best players in the world right now has recently won the presitgious Ballon d’Or. Tournament schedule: Please note timings are true to the UK (GMT) 17th Feb 2.30pm Germany vs Spain 17th Feb 7.30pm England vs Canada 20th Feb 3:15pm England vs Spain 20th Feb 8:15pm Canada vs Germany 23rd Feb 2.30pm Spain vs Canada 23rd Feb 7.30pm England vs Germany Television broadcasting: UK – ITV4 USA – CBS Mexica, Brazil, Central and South America – ESPN Canada – TSN Spain – rtve Germany – ARD1 / ZDF Sub Subharan Africa – W-Sport

Latest Lionesses squad announced for their first training camp since the SheBelieves Cup. September Training Camp Back Latest Lionesses squad announced for their first training camp since the SheBelieves Cup. talkSport Friday, 11 September 2020 By Charlotte Stacey This will mark the first time the Lionesses have been together since the SheBelieves Cup in February. Amongst the cohort are a number of new faces, with eight players receiving their first senior call ups. Neville previously added a number of rising young talent to the Lionesses ranks and has seemingly widened the net with his latest selection. “This is a critical moment in our development of England Women," said Neville. “Every camp from now on is aimed at building a team capable of competing for the highest honours in world football, including the prestigious home EURO in 2022 and, ultimately, the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023.” “It's important that we offer as many opportunities as possible for some of the country’s best young talent to stake their claim for a place in the senior England squad for this exciting three-year period.” The Lionesses will travel to Wiesbaden to take on Germany in a friendly on Tuesday 27th October. Lionesses Training Camp Squad Goalkeepers Carly Telford (Chelsea), Ellie Roebuck (Manchester City), Sandy MacIver (Everton), Hannah Hampton (Birmingham City) Defenders Leah Williamson (Arsenal), Rachel Daly (West Ham), Demi Stokes (Manchester City), Millie Bright (Chelsea), Abbie McManus (Manchester United), Grace Fisk (West Ham), Steph Houghton (Manchester City), Alex Greenwood (Manchester City), Esme Morgan (Manchester City), Lotte Wubben-Moy (Arsenal), Lucy Bronze (Manchester City), Millie Turner (Manchester United) Midfielders Keira Walsh (Manchester City), Jordan Nobbs (Arsenal), Georgia Stanway (Manchester City), Jill Scott (Manchester City), Ella Toone (Manchester City), Katie Zelem (Manchester United), Niamh Charles (Chelsea) Forwards Beth England (Chelsea), Chloe Kelly (Manchester City), Ellen White (Manchester City), Alessia Russo (Manchester United), Beth Mead (Arsenal), Fran Kirby (Chelsea), Rinsola Babajide (Liverpool) *Due to quarantine restrictions, a number of senior players who are abroad have not been selected.

Phil Neville has made the decision to move on to pastures new leaving England for Inter Miami. Neville Steps Down Back Phil Neville has made the decision to move on to pastures new leaving England for Inter Miami. via Getty Images Monday, 18 January 2021 By Charlotte Stacey It has been confirmed that Phil Neville will step down as England head coach with immediate effect following his designation to head up Inter Miami. Neville had planned to see out the full term of his contract, terminating in July, and was also appointed as the manager for Team GB in the upcoming Olympic Games. The FA will now prioritise naming an interim coach for the Lionesses with an announcement expected within the next few days, as well as beginning the search for a replacement Team GB boss. Since taking charge of the Lionesses in January 2018, Neville has endured the good, the bad and the downright ugly. In 2019 he led the English side to SheBelieves Cup victory, World Cup semi-finals and helped the Lionesses qualify for the Olympics. Yet, after that fateful semi-final defeat the Lionesses have failed to find their form and have suffered seven losses in eleven games. Most recently they placed third (out of four) in 2020’s SheBelieves Cup and have dropped in the world rankings from third to sixth under Neville’s leadership. The Lionesses have not played a competitive match since March 2020 and currently have no upcoming fixtures. It has been rumoured that England had planned to host their own round-robin type tournament as they will not be competing in the SheBelieves Cup in America this year. However, any arrangements for such a tournament have not been confirmed. Upon his departure Neville has commented, “it has been an honour to manage England and I have enjoyed three of the best years of my career with The FA and the Lionesses. The players who wear the England shirt are some of the most talented and dedicated athletes I have ever had the privilege to work with. They have challenged me and improved me as a coach and I am very grateful to them for the fantastic memories we have shared.” Neville will now take charge of former England and Manchester United teammate, David Beckham’s club, Inter Miami. Beckham applauded Neville’s appointment, stating, "we share a footballing DNA having been trained by some of the best leaders in the game, and it's those values that I have always wanted running through our club. Anyone who has played or worked with Phil knows he is a natural leader, and I believe now is the right time for him to join." The Netherland’s head coach, Sarina Wiegman, has been named as Neville’s eventual successor and will join the national side in August upon conclusion of the Olympics on a four-year contract. Under Wiegman’s management, the Dutch national side have won the 2017 Euro’s and were runners up in World Cup in 2019. Wiegman was also named Best FIFA Women’s coach in 2017. The news of Neville’s departure is not the only change to personnel that the home nations have incurred in recent weeks. Jayne Ludlow and Shelley Kerr have also stepped down as the head coaches of Wales and Scotland respectively. Ludlow, who has been with Wales since October 2014, commented, "my time as the national team manager has been an eventful and exciting journey. It has been an honour and an absolute pleasure to have worked with the staff and players across our age group and senior teams.” Ludlow is the first manager to take the Welsh side into the top 30 in the world rankings and the only manager to have taken the reins for more than 50 games. Kerr left the Scottish national side in December, three years since taking the helm, after they failed to qualify for the Euro’s 2022. Having led Scotland to their first World Cup in 2019, Kerr commented on her departure, "I thank the Scottish FA and all who supported me in fulfilling my dream of leading our country to the World Cup finals for the first time. I am privileged to have played a part in such an historical moment in Scottish football. That is something that will live with me forever.”

Team Information: Brighton and Hove Albion Brighton and Hove Albion Website https://www.brightonandhovealbion.com/teams/womens-team Manager Hope Powell CBE - ENG Captain Danielle Bowman Brighton and Hove Albion Emily Simpkins Photographer: Girls on the Ball Inessa Kaagman and Ellie Brazil Photographer: Girls on the Ball Brighton and Hove Albion 1/6 Squad Player Position Number Nationality DOB Megan Walsh GK 1 ENG 12/11/1994 Fran Stenson (on loan from Arsenal) GK TBC ENG 27/04/2001 Frankie Angel GK 25 ENG Fliss Gibbons DF 3 ENG 09/07/1994 Danielle Kerkdijk DF 5 NED 01/05/1996 Maya Le Tissier DF 6 ENG 18/04/2002 Emma Koivisto DF 12 FIN 25/09/1994 Victoria Williams DF 20 ENG 05/04/1999 Danielle Bowman MF 4 ENG 31/10/1998 Aileen Whelan MF 7 ENG 11/08/1991 Megan Connolly MF 8 IRL 07/03/1997 Inessa Kaagman MF 10 NED 17/04/1996 Emily Simpkins MF 19 ENG 25/05/1990 Maisie Symonds MF 24 ENG 02/02/2003 Kayleigh Green FW 15 WAL 22/03/1988 Ellie Brazil FW 16 ENG 10/01/1999 Katie Robinson FW 22 ENG 08/08/2002 Lee Guem-min FW 9 KOR 07/04/1994 Rinsola Babajide (on loan from Liverpool) FW 11 ENG 17/06/1998 Danielle Carter FW 18 ENG 10/05/1993 Libby Bance FW 32 ENG 23/07/2003 Ground The People's Pension Stadium, Crawley RH11 9RX

Team GB secured qualification for the quarter-finals of the Olympics with a 1-0 win over host nation Japan. Team GB News Team GB: Quarter Finals Booked Team GB secured qualification for the quarter-finals of the Olympics with a 1-0 win over host nation Japan. Reuters 24 July 2021 By Joshua Bunting Following the win over Chile Hege Riise knew a win would send her side into the last eight of the competition. Team GB created the first opportunity in the 17th minute after a quick passage of play when Lucy Bronze crossed for Ellen White who flicked the ball out to Sophie Ingle before her shot was blocked and put behind for a corner that came to nothing in the end. Leah Williamson then made a good block on 29 minutes as Honoka Hayashi stepped onto a poor pass before fizzing a shot in but the Arsenal defender did well to make the block before Lucy Bronze took the pressure off winning a goal-kick. Japan then started to take control of the game as Mina Tanaka received the ball on the edge of the area before turning quickly and cracking her effort wide of the right hand post. On 42 minutes Williamson played a superb pass into Lauren Hemp taking the Japanese defence out before the wingers cross aiming for Ellen White was over-hit and sailed wide for a goal-kick. It wasn't a first half that will live long in the memory with not many chances being created and with Japan keeping a good team-shape and frustrating Team GB in midfield. Hege Riise's side started the second half well moving the ball quicker along with making a tactical change moving Kiera Walsh higher up the pitch. Williamson on 58 minutes met a corner before flicking it over the defenders head but was prevented getting a shot away by a good challenge from Risa Shimizu. A minute later Riise then thought it was time for a change as Caroline Weir came on for Sophie Ingle meaning that Walsh dropped back allowing Weir to push higher up the pitch. In a game limited with talking points it was Walsh who tried her luck on 70 minutes as she cut inside before unleashing a strike wide of the target. However Team GB did take the lead on 74 minutes when Kim Little turned away from danger before playing the ball out to Bronze who crossed perfectly for White to head into the net to break the deadlock. Riise then made further changes as Rachel Daly, Georgia Stanway and Jill Scott all came on replacing Nikita Parris, Little and Lauren Hemp. Team GB had the final opportunity of the game as Weir clipped a free-kick over the wall before the ball landed on the roof of the net. Team GB will play their final match of Group E against Canada on Tuesday 27th July at 12pm (BST). Team GB: Roebuck, Bronze, Williamson, Houghton, Stokes, Walsh, Ingle (Weir 59'), Parris (Daly 76') Little (C) (Scott 88'), Hemp (Stanway 88'), White

A quick guide to Leicester City who compete in the Women's Super League. Leicester City Website https://www.lcfc.com/women Manager Lydia Bedford - ENG Captain Sophie Barker Squad Leicester City Badge Square Natasha Flint Photographer: Girls on the Ball Sophie Howard Photographer: Girls on the Ball Leicester City Badge Square 1/6 Player Position Number Nationality DOB Demi Lambourne GK 1 ENG 30/04/1996 Kirstie Levell GK 28 ENG 07/01/1997 Sophie Harris GK 48 ENG 25/08/1994 Sam Tierney DF 3 ENG 08/10/1998 Abbie McManus DF 5 ENG 14/01/1993 Georgia Broughman DF 6 ENG 10/03/1996 Esmee de Graaf DF 14 NED 02/08/1997 Sophie Howard DF 15 SCO 17/09/1993 Ashleigh Plumptre DF 22 ENG 08/05/1998 Jemma Purfield DF 23 ENG 21/02/1997 Molly Pike MF 8 ENG 22/01/2001 Charlie Devlin MF 10 ENG 23/02/1998 Sophie Barker MF 18 ENG 25/12/1990 Shannon O'Brien MF 27 ENG 05/10/2001 Connie Scofield MF 44 ENG 26/05/1999 Natasha Flint FW 7 ENG 02/08/1996 Jess Sigsworth FW 9 ENG 13/10/1994 Lachante Paul FW 11 ENG 06/08/2002 Paige Bailey-Gayle FW 17 ENG 12/11/2001 Abbi Grant FW 19 SCO 11/12/1995 Hannah Cain FW 21 ENG 11/02/1999 Ground King Power Stadium, Leicester LE2 7FL

A look at the potential Team GB squad list for the 2021 Olympics. Team GB News Team GB: who will make the cut? A look at the potential Team GB squad list for the 2021 Olympics. Girls on the Ball 23 May 2021 By Charlotte Stacey With the domestic season now over, attention turns to the Olympics where interim Lionesses head coach Hege Riise will select eighteen players to represent Team GB. The Olympics are set to take place in Tokyo between 23rd July – 8th August, yet as with everything over the past year unpredictability remains firmly intact. Riise was appointed to lead Team GB after heading up the Lionesses since Phil Neville’s departure in January. The Norwegian coach has the option to choose players from the four home nations, England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland for her limited squad. Due to the fast paced and unremitting nature of the Olympics, the FA insist that Riise’s selection of players must fulfil the following “crucial criteria”. • Physical condition - Team GB could play six games in seventeen days in warm temperatures and humidity. Players must also cope with hectic travelling schedules. • Mental toughness – dealing with the pressure of a prestigious global competition and potential setbacks throughout. • Versatility – with only eighteen places, players must be willing and able to adapt to positions that are not necessarily preferred. Riise must select a robust squad that can rotate with a degree of adaptability. It is for this reason that it should be considered the squad may not necessarily consist of players that are generally classed as the most prolific on paper. A key aspect of an Olympic squad is a unified team dynamic. A group that will gel to create the most coherent unit, not just the most individually gifted in each position. A careful balance must be sought between ‘big game’ international experience and dependable domestic form; versatility and singular positional excellence; consistency and rotation. Unfortunately, as is the cruelty of football, some players that would have perhaps been in contention are now not fit to partake. This is particularly true of Manchester City’s Chloe Kelly, whose dynamite season came to an abrupt end after picking up an ACL injury. Other players that are out of the running include Manchester United midfielder Hayley Ladd, Reading defender Emma Mitchell, Arsenal centre back Jen Beattie, as well as the ever-flexible Lisa Evans. Lionesses skipper Steph Houghton has also been out of action over the past couple of months due to an Achilles injury. Whether Houghton is in a position to participate remains to be seen, however if her recovery has run smoothly, one would expect Houghton to be a central figure within the squad. Below is a look at a potential selection for the Olympics with short justifications for each player. Goalkeeping Ellie Roebuck Roebuck is surely a show-in for the Olympics. At just 21, Roebuck is bold yet sensible in her decisions and clear with outward communication. Roebuck has kept thirteen clean sheets this season across all competitions alluding to her smart positioning between the posts. Simply, the Manchester City keeper remains as one of the finest in the domestic league, and with her growing international experience, Roebuck should be the number one pick. Sandy MacIver With a significant amount of game time behind her this season, MacIver is a keeper that should be carefully considered. MacIver presents a favourable outright shot stopping rate and a distributive passing ability that reflects her skill in being as well versed with her feet as she is with her hands. The Everton keeper presents a confident solidarity at the back and would be a suitable addition to the squad. Defence Lucy Bronze Bronze is recognised as being one of the most well-crafted players in the world in her position. The right back is high pressing, imposing and physical. Bronze likes to keep players on both sides on their toes and is known to be as lively in the attacking third as she is at the back. Evidently always striving for the very best, Bronze is responsible for every touch she takes and is quick to note and actively right a mistake. An open mentality that will be essential under such unremitting circumstances. Millie Bright Chelsea defender Bright is a steadfast figure at the back and encompasses every quality one would hope to find in a centre-back. Typically wise in her defensive actions, Bright is shrewd with a tackle and makes substantial interceptive movements. She is successful in applying pressure to divert attacking plays and forcing opponents onto the wrong foot. Bright also carries with her an exceptional ability to accurately play long balls that can spin a game on its head in seconds. Leah Williamson Williamson has played another successful season with The Arsenal. The centre-half boasts a first class first touch and excellent ball control, often developing on these with a keen passing eye. Williamson is organised yet progressive and possesses a capability to carry the ball across considerable distances. Another benefit of having Williamson in the squad is that she is also able to comfortably operate in a deep-seated midfield role which allows the option of a working double pivot. Steph Houghton One would expect Manchester City and England captain Houghton to be on the plane to Tokyo if she is fit enough to do so. Houghton has been a staple in the Lionesses defensive structure for a number of years and still has plenty to offer. Up until her recent injury Houghton’s domestic season had been impressive, the centre back showing off her stout commitment to keeping a clean sheet with her timely challenges and goal line clearances. Houghton is also an indirect free kick specialist and can pot the ball from the most incomprehensible angles. With ample international experience, Houghton’s leadership and calming presence should not be underestimated in a tournament of such prestige. Alex Greenwood Manchester City defender Greenwood has arguably just played one of the greatest seasons of her career. The left back has shown a promising attacking flavour in pressing along the wing but has also notably strengthened her defensive qualities after stints as a centre back. Greenwood is well known for her dead ball deliveries, especially her accurately placed corner kicks. Furthermore, Greenwood is naturally left sided and will be a key element in formulating a left side – right side equilibrium. Lotte Wubben-Moy Wubben-Moy has returned to The Arsenal with a physicality and strength that has punished the efforts of opponents. The centre-back is alert in closing down space and strong in standing her ground. Her growing ball playing ability is evident and she has even managed to write her name on the scoresheet this season. It is also worth noting that Wubben-Moy typically plays on the left, a useful trait to have in a right-side heavy defensive pack. Midfield Keira Walsh Walsh remains one of the most skilled defensive midfielders the home nations have to offer. The 24-year-old is a gifted visionary and uses this foresight to execute well placed balls into the attacking third. Walsh is well used as a ‘springboard’ in propelling play out from a deeper position whilst standing protective of her backline. Approaching games with a patient approach, Walsh bides her time in picking out the most advantageous pass, a crucial cog in goal and shot creation. Kim Little Widely regarded as one of the most difficult opponents to come up against, Little navigates the midfield with an untouchable quality. Little’s ball control is second to none and the Arsenal captain is able to dribble through oppositions effortlessly. Yet possibly one the most valuable aspect of Little’s game is her acute awareness of all that goes on around her, an intellect in knowing her teammates whereabouts and an ability to play to them in to their strengths. Little’s understated leadership will be paramount in keeping the core ticking. Caroline Weir Manchester City midfielder Weir has a wand of a left foot, there is simply no other way to describe it. Another player to bolster the left side, Weir is creative with her positioning and in her passing demonstrated by her ability to regularly assist toward scoring opportunities. However, Weir herself is no stranger to hitting the back of the net. Whether it is from a long-range set piece or a live attack, Weir is able to hit the target with the sauciest of strikes. Jordan Nobbs Nobbs is a recognised tyrant within the middle third. The Arsenal midfielder reinforces her sharp positioning with nifty footwork and a deft touch. Nobbs’ game is quick, intricate and at times daring. She is creative in her runs both on and off the ball, often making movements that are not spotted until it is too late. Nobbs is also renowned for her distanced belters that regularly rattle the back of the net. The addition of Nobbs typically results in a more fluid and dynamic midfield bridge, she is a useful tool to have handy when play falls static. Georgia Stanway At just 22 Stanway has cemented herself as one of the most versatile players in contention. Stanway has played in a number of positions both domestically and internationally and is a reliable source in rotation. Stanway displays an attacking mindset and is possibly best utilised as a high attacking midfielder, however she has demonstrated disciplined defensive positioning when task with holding further back. Naturally spirited, Stanway is not one to shy away from a challenge and will get herself stuck into any and all situations. Attack Lauren Hemp Hemp has established herself a ‘must have’ in international fixtures. The Manchester City winger dances along the wing, revelling in the pressure of beating out stiff competition as she goes. Hemp is an excellent transitional player and is able to find pockets of space to receive balls to counter an oppositional threat. Also known for her ungovernable pace and skill in placing a cross from either side, Hemp is a proven headache for defenders. Fran Kirby Kirby is likely to be many supporters first choice to be seated on the plane. The Chelsea forward has returned from her lengthy absence with a vengeance, providing a mammoth thirteen assists and twenty-two goals across all competitions. Kirby has played in a wider position this season but is just as deadly playing centrally in what one would suggest is her most favoured role as a number ten. She is quick, conscious, intelligent and significantly unselfish, drawing in defenders leaving others to dart into optimal positions whilst lines are stretched. Ellen White Manchester City forward White is an innate out and out number nine. An ability to put herself in the right place at the right time has seen White score thirteen goals across all competitions this season. White is cool, calm and collected, tidy and concise in tucking the ball away a with a clinical finish. Ever the grafter, White’s work rate is noteworthy, she is simply not one to sit tight or wait on the peripheral. White seeks the service she desires and runs tirelessly to receive this. Nikita Parris Instinctively attacking Parris is a player that is able to function well across the front line. The Lyon forward is arguably best placed in a wide area where she is able to decoy defenders by cutting on the inside with a quick shift of the ball. However, Parris can adapt her skillset to play centrally when needed and boasts a fine scoring ability. Parris is a workhorse and has no problem in chasing down a ball or tracking back to retrieve. Her positive energy drags a simmering momentum out of hiding. Rachel Daly Daly is a player that could quite literally play in any position on the pitch. Typically used as a fullback when playing internationally, Daly is arguably more usefully located much higher up the pitch. She is forward thinking with a flair in sparking an independently charged play, yet possesses a defensive savvy. Her willingness to perform out of position and dexterity across the field makes her a favourable selection. Reserves Niamh Charles Chelsea’s Charles is a player that can seemingly slot into any formation that is presented. Her first season with the Blues has been exceptional and she has shown a great amount of positional potential. Charles has played in both left sided and right sided positions and in both attacking and defensive roles demonstrating a clear and prepared adaptability. Ella Toone Manchester United midfielder Toone has finished her season in style, ending as the Red Devils’ top goal scorer and leading assistant. Toone is a tenacious and hardworking player who excels just slightly setback from the forward line. As a developing provider Toone is agile and quick witted in finding the space to create through central pathways. Erin Cuthbert Scotland international Cuthbert is better known as Chelsea’s inhouse pest. Cuthbert is stubborn and gritty and happily throws herself into the dirty work. Typically placed out wide, Cuthbert makes herself a bother to both those in front and behind her. She is persistent in tracking back and retrieving a lost ball and is tenacious in carrying said retrieval forward. Cuthbert is an all-round nuisance for oppositions, a player you certainly want on side. Sophie Ingle Wales captain Ingle acts as an added layer of protection in the defensive third. She is able to cover well and sweep away threats before they become a problem. However, Ingle’s excellence lies firmly in her passing ability. Ingle is able to accurately spray long balls which travel between lines, passes that subsequently play a role in creation. On top of this Ingle has also successfully played as a centre-back for Chelsea this season, another useful string to add to her bow. Team GB’s confirmed squad list is to be announced in late May.

A quick guide to Lewes who compete in the Women's Championship. Lewes Website https://lewesfc.com/teams/womens-1st-team/ Manager Scott Booth - SCO Captain Squad Lewes Lewes 1/1 Number Player Position Nationality Libby Copus-Brown MF AUS Ini Umotong FW NGA Ellie Mason DF GIB Emily Kraft FW IRL Amber Keegan-Stobbs FW ENG Hollie Olding MF ENG Reanna Blades MF ENG Sarah Brasero-Carreira MF ENG Shanell Salgado GK GER Grace Garrard DF Emma Thompson (on loan from Chelsea) FW ENG Caragh Hamilton MF Sophie O'Rouke DF/LB ENG Rhian Cleverly DF WAL Kallie Balfour MF ENG Maria Farrugia MF MLT Kate Oakley FW Shauna Vassell DF Freda Ayisi MF ENG Anna Grey MF Ava Hutson MF ENG Nicola Cousins DF/LB WAL Sophie Whitehouse GK USA Ellie Noble MF ENG Laura Hartley GK ENG Zoe Cross MF ENG Tatiana Saunders GK ENG Grace Riglar DF Emily Jones FW WAL Paula Howells MF ENG Amelia Hazard MF ENG Valentine Pursey FW Rebecca McKenna DF/RB NIR Izzy Dalton MF AUS Nat Johnson DF ENG Ellie Hack DF ENG Josie Longhurst MF WAL Léa Cordier DF BEL Lucy Porter MF ENG 1 Sophie Whitehouse GK IRL 3 Rhian Cleverly DF WAL 4 Amelia Hazard MF ENG 6 Ellie Hack DF ENG 7 Nat Johnson DF ENG 8 Grace Palmer MF ENG 19 Lauren Heria MF ENG 20 Libby Copus-Brown MF AUS 22 Josie Longhurst MF WAL 26 Emily Moore GK CAN Ground The Dripping Pan, Mountfield Rd, Lewes, BN7 2XA Rhian Cleverly

Success in Sapporo as Team GB beat Chile 2-0. Team GB News Team GB: Victory over Chile Success in Sapporo as Team GB beat Chile 2-0. via Team GB 21 July 2021 By Charlotte Stacey In their first match of the tournament Team GB took on Chile in Sapporo in a late afternoon kick-off. Head coach Hege Riise named a starting eleven largely formed of Manchester City players as only Kim Little, Rachel Daly and Millie Bright lined-up from Arsenal, Houston Dash and Chelsea respectively. England and Manchester City skipper Steph Houghton donned the armband ahead of other named captains Kim Little and Sophie Ingle. Rachel Daly was selected to fill as a left back over Demi Stokes who remained on the bench for this fixture. Georgia Stanway kicked off play in the Sapporo Dome and straight off the bat Team GB set out to dominate the South American side. Within minutes Team GB had dizzied Chile with a set of fast paced one-twos and intricate passages in and around the area. The first goal of the game came in just ten minutes through rapid build-up play between Stanway, Little and Lauren Hemp. Stanway fed the ball in towards striker Ellen White who took the chance but was ultimately ruled offside. As the score remained level, Team GB found themselves in a little hot water at the quarter of the hour mark as Chile lurked in the box whilst the Brits failed to clear. Danger averted, Team GB put themselves back on the front foot and notched their first goal of the tournament on the scoresheet mere minutes later. Hemp, as she would demonstrate throughout, made light work of Chile’s right-hand side, skipping past Nayadet Lopez Opaza with ease. Hemp pulled the pass back to Stanway who played in Lucy Bronze on the overlap. Bronze dinked in a lofty ball to Hemp who managed to get a head to it before White finished off, sinking the loose ball past Chilean captain Christiane Endler. With their confidence brimming Team GB continued to threaten throughout the first half, keeping possession and dictating flow. However, after a few well timed chances, the half concluded with the score remaining 1-0. No substitutions were made as the second half began, however Team GB’s wide players switched, with Hemp now operating the right hand side and Stanway, the left. Once again, Team GB’s midfield trio of Little, Caroline Weir and Keira Walsh directed a number of clever plays early in the half. Chile, however, begin to respond to Team GB’s dominance with a few smart movements of their own, yet no real threat was ever sensed. Back in the driving seat, Team GB bid for goal again after Stanway received a beautifully placed ball from Walsh. Taking a touch, Stanway hit the shot which was stopped, surprisingly sloppily, by Endler only to fall as far as White, who was challenged as she stretched for the ball. After a lengthy VAR check, White was again ruled offside, declaring both the penalty and Team GB’s already organised corner, void. Team GB’s second goal came with just over ten minutes to go. Birthed from a Daly throw-in, Team GB held possession on the edge of the area before Bronze crossed in her second assisting ball of the match. Bronze’s delivery was met by White who took the ball on the half volley to earn herself a brace. Wrapping up in a similar fashion as it started, Team GB remained dominant until the final whistle, ending their first match with a two-nil win. A pleasing performance from Team GB and a positive position to find themselves in as group stage games could prove to become progressively more difficult from here on in. Kim Little was arguably the most influential player on the pitch with much build-up play stemming from her constant clever movement and sophisticated passing. Little should also be noted for her ability to play in wide players and her partnerships with both Lauren Hemp and Georgia Stanway meant a lot of joy was derived from the wing. Speaking after the match, Hege Riise pinpointed Hemp as one of Team GB’s most crucial performers, “I am happy with the team performance and there will always be players that make something special. Today, on the left, Lauren did that. One v one all the time to get in and serve in the box.” Next up, Team GB will play hosts Japan on Saturday 24th July at 11:30am (BST). Team GB: Ellie Roebuck, Lucy Bronze, Steph Houghton (C), Millie Bright, Rachel Daly, Kim Little (90+1’), Keira Walsh (68’), Caroline Weir (89’), Georgia Stanway, Ellen White, Lauren Hemp (67’) Substitutes: Carly Telford (GK), Demi Stokes, Leah Williamson, Sophie Ingle (68’), Jill Scott (89’), Ella Toone (90+1’), Nikita Parris (67’) Goals: White (18’, 73’) Chile: Christiane Endler (C), Carla Guerrero, Francisca Lara, Nayadet Lopez Opaza (80’), Karen Araya, Maria Jose Urrutia, Yanara Aedo (77’), Yessenia Lopez (70’), Daniela Pardo, Daniela Zamora, Camila Saez Substitutes: Natalia Campos (GK), Fernanda Ramirez, Yenny Acuna (77’), Rosario Balmaceda (80’), Javiera Toro, Javiera Grez, M. Francisca Mardones (70’)

A quick guide to Southampton who compete in the Women's Championship. Southampton Website https://www.southamptonfc.com/women Manager Marianne Spacey-Cale - ENG Captain Rosanna Parnell Squad Southampton Square Lexi Lloyd-Smith Celebration Photographer: Ryan Asman Southampton Square 1/2 Number Title Position Nationality 1 Kayla Rendell GK ENG 2 Ella Morris DF ENG 3 Milly Mott DF ENG 4 Lucia Kendall MF ENG 5 Rosanna Parnell DF ENG 6 Laura Rafferty DF NIR 7 Lexi Lloyd-Smith MF ENG 8 Chloe Peplow MF ENG 9 Katie Wilkinson FW ENG 10 Rianna Dean FW ENG 11 Megan Wynne MF WAL 12 Sophia Pharoah FW ENG 14 Molly Pike FW ENG 16 Emma Thompson FW ENG 17 Emily Kraft FW IRL 18 Izzy Milne DF ENG 19 Alice Griffiths MF WAL 20 Atlanta Primus MF JAM 21 Jemma Purfield DF ENG 22 Beth Howard GK ENG 23 Megan Collett DF ENG 24 Paige Peake DF ENG Ground St. Mary's Stadium, Britannia Rd, Southampton , England, SO14 5RG