As the England Women’s football team prepares to face Portugal and Spain in decisive Nations League qualifiers, these contests offer an important opportunity for athletes to leave a lasting impression. The European Championship starting in Switzerland on July 5 should provide compelling theater.
Unfortunately for the team, the schedule has other plans as major figures continue to be cut down by various injury bugs. Lauren Hemp’s hopes of making the cut are over after she sustained a hamstring injury. Topically, the same fate has befallen Lauren James, though for the same reason. That is a huge concern to the England manager Sarina Wiegman ahead of next summer’s Euros. She thinks it’s going to be close right to the wire.
Squad Changes and Returns
While the loss of Hemp and James is an undeniable blow, Wiegman has been buoyed by the return of two key figures to her lineup. With Georgia Stanway and Alex Greenwood returning to the squad, their experience and skill will be critical for repeat success in the Nations League.
Wiegman acknowledged the importance of these matches, saying, “These are another two important games for us in a big year. Naturally, we are preparing for the summer ahead.” The England women’s squad is second in their current Nations League Group A3, behind World Cup winners Spain. So far the team has racked up two victories, one tie, and one loss. Their fans can’t wait for more promising performances in the next matches!
Ella Morris, a young defender who has impressed this season with Tottenham and England’s U23s, earned her first senior call-up. This inclusion showcases Wiegman’s continued dedication to developing fresh talent while creating a more fearsome squad.
Focus on Match Fitness
With just 53 days until England’s first match of Euro 2025, time really is of the essence. With just three games left on the calendar before then, match sharpness and player fitness will be the name of the game. Wiegman emphasized the need for optimal performance, stating, “At the same time, it is important that we focus first on what is right in front of us and ending the Nations League campaign in the best possible way.”
Hemp’s plight is worrisome as well. She has not played a full 90 in club competition since her club’s playoff loss last November in which she injured her knee. The England side can’t afford these issues, as they prepare for a Euro qualifying double-header in the coming weeks that will impact selection for the Euros.
Preparing for Future Tournaments
Wiegman is understandably focusing on the Nations League. She further announced that the clubs have been approached to participate in the World Sevens tournament. In addition to being historical the inaugural seven-a-side date will be star-studded with many Manchester City and Manchester United players. It presents amazing competitive prospects for your team.
Wiegman acknowledged the depth of options available to her team, saying, “We have many options up front. I hope everyone does really well and of course, it’s nice to have that opportunity again. I hope I get lots of headaches as that means everyone is performing at the highest level and we have decisions to make.”
As England prepares to convene at St George’s Park on May 26, Wiegman remains focused on maximizing player performance and achieving success in both the Nations League and the upcoming European Championship.
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