England spoke to the media ahead of their friendly against China, offering updates on squad fitness, leadership, the upcoming World Cup bid and broader issues affecting the game. With two friendlies left in this window, the focus is as much on experimenting as it is on winning.
Full squad available at the time, with one late change since.
Sarina Wiegman confirmed during the press conference that the squad was fully fit with one session remaining. She highlighted how valuable it was to finally have more options available after recent camps with several absences.
She said the two upcoming matches against China and Ghana will be used to test partnerships and give chances to players pushing for minutes.
"We have four friendlies, two done and two to come. It gives players opportunities to show themselves. We want to experiment a little bit and try out things."
Since then, Manchester City goalkeeper Khiara Keating has withdrawn from the squad due to injury and Ellie Roebuck has been recalled. England has continued preparations without her.
Wiegman also stressed that she wants the China match to stay 11 versus 11 after the unusual red card incident in the previous game.
"I hope a situation like that does not occur. You take the most out of the game when it stays 11 against 11."
Looking ahead to the 2035 World Cup bid
Both Wiegman and Keira Walsh spoke about the UK’s confirmed bid for the 2035 Women's World Cup. Wiegman said the scale of the potential tournament would make it one of the most significant global sporting events in history.
Walsh reflected on how powerful the 2022 experience was.
"Playing in front of a home crowd in 2022 was incredible. It would be extraordinary for the younger generation in the UK to have that opportunity. It is a great chance to inspire even more young girls and boys."
Walsh on League Cup changes and the crowded calendar
Walsh was asked about the decision for teams in European competitions to no longer enter the League Cup. She said the adjustment makes sense given the intensity of the schedule.
"It probably makes sense for the teams in the Champions League to have one less competition. That is what we have been asking for as players. It is a good decision in terms of injuries and welfare."
Captaincy talk and Walsh’s leadership style
With senior defenders absent, teammates have teased Walsh about being captain.
She explained how her leadership differs from that of Leah Williamson.
"I tend to have more one-to-one conversations with younger players. I try to lead through how I play and my consistency."
She added that captaining England would be a proud moment, but would not change her personality.
China offer a different type of test
Wiegman said it is essential to face teams from outside Europe as England prepare for the 2027 World Cup qualifiers.
China are very disciplined with a good structure. They can play out or go more direct. We expect them to challenge us tactically. We hope to have more of the ball and improve our own game."
A new look back line
With Williamson, Bright, Greenwood and Carter all unavailable, England will field an entirely new centre-back pairing. Wiegman said this is a chance to reward players who have been performing well.
"It gives opportunities for players to show themselves. They deserve the chance because they have shown good performances."
Participation targets reached early
Walsh reflected on the news that football participation targets in UK schools have been reached three years early. She was part of the 2022 squad that pushed for equal access.
"In primary school, there were maybe one or two girls who played. We did not need them to be the next professional. We just wanted them to have the chance. It is extraordinary that the target has been achieved early."
Fran Kirby to be honoured
England will celebrate Fran Kirby’s international career at the match. Wiegman praised her intelligence, creativity and personality.
"She is an incredible player, brilliant, and a great teammate. She has so much more to come. We look forward to celebrating her international career."
Keira Walsh on Mary Earps and the fallout from recent weeks
Walsh was also asked about the wider scrutiny around the squad following the publication of Mary Earps’ book and the reaction surrounding it. She made it clear that the players have not discussed the situation in camp and that she did not want to comment publicly on issues involving teammates.
"I have not really spoken about it. It has been in the news, but they are both my teammates, so it would be unfair for me to speak on that."
She emphasised that the squad is focused on preparing for the upcoming fixtures and moving forward after what she described as a challenging period.
"We are looking forward. We have tough games coming up, we are looking ahead to the World Cup and trying not to dwell on what has been spoken about in the last few weeks."
Walsh on online abuse
Walsh was asked about recent comments from Karen Carney on online abuse. She said the issue affects almost every player in the WSL and that players are tired of calling for more decisive action without improvements.
"You would struggle to find a player who has not experienced abuse. We keep saying something needs to be done, but nothing really changes. It is worrying for the younger girls coming through."
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