The England women’s national football team has announced its squad for the upcoming Women’s Nations League matches, featuring the return of key players Lauren Hemp, Georgia Stanway, and Alex Greenwood. Their inclusion comes as a significant boost for manager Sarina Wiegman as the team prepares for Euro 2025.

Key Takeaways

• Lauren Hemp, Georgia Stanway, and Alex Greenwood return from injury for the upcoming matches.
• The squad will face Portugal on May 30 and Spain on June 2.
• The matches are crucial for finalizing the squad for Euro 2025.
• Chelsea forward Lauren James remains sidelined due to a hamstring injury.

Key Player Returns

The return of Hemp, Stanway, and Greenwood is particularly important as they have been sidelined due to knee surgeries. Despite their absence, Hemp managed to finish the Women’s Super League season with the most assists, showcasing her potential impact upon return.

• Lauren Hemp (24 years old) last played for England in October 2022 and has not completed a full match this year. Wiegman expressed concern over her lack of match fitness but remains optimistic about her recovery.
• Alex Greenwood (31 years old) has been a consistent presence in defense for England and recently returned to club action after missing several matches.
• Georgia Stanway (26 years old) is still working on her fitness but is expected to benefit from training with the national team.

Upcoming Matches

The Lionesses will play two crucial matches in the Women’s Nations League:

1. Against Portugal on May 30
2. Against Spain on June 2

These matches serve as the final opportunity for players to impress before Wiegman finalizes her squad for the Euro 2025 tournament, which kicks off on July 5 against France.

Squad Composition

The England squad for the upcoming matches includes:

• Goalkeepers: Mary Earps, Hannah Hampton, Khiara Keating, Anna Moorhouse
• Defenders: Millie Bright, Lucy Bronze, Jess Carter, Niamh Charles, Alex Greenwood, Maya le Tissier, Esme Morgan, Ella Morris, Leah Williamson
• Midfielders: Grace Clinton, Missy Bo Kearns, Fran Kirby, Jess Park, Georgia Stanway, Ella Toone, Keira Walsh
• Forwards: Michelle Agyemang, Aggie Beever-Jones, Lauren Hemp, Chloe Kelly, Beth Mead, Nikita Parris, Alessia Russo

Challenges Ahead

While the return of key players is promising, Wiegman faces challenges with the fitness of some squad members. Lauren James, who was a standout performer before her injury, is still recovering and has not been included in the squad. Wiegman has emphasized the need for players to be at their best to compete effectively in the upcoming tournament.

Conclusion

As the England women’s team gears up for the Women’s Nations League, the return of Hemp, Stanway, and Greenwood is a welcome development. With the Euro 2025 tournament on the horizon, these matches will be critical for building team chemistry and ensuring that the squad is ready to defend their title. The Lionesses will be looking to capitalize on their returning stars to make a strong statement ahead of the tournament.

Sources

• England squad: Lauren Hemp, Alex Greenwood & Georgia Stanway back, BBC.