The Lionesses versus China – Women's Friendly International
Preamble
Welcome everyone to the friendly fixture between the English side and China at the iconic Wembley. An exciting encounter is anticipated with the European Championship holders competing against the current Asian Cup champions.
England’s national stadium is packed for the match, which will see Fran Kirby celebrated pre-match after her international retirement before the Euro tournament this past summer.
The team news will be announced shortly, but there was a late squad update for England. On Friday, Khiara Keating withdrew from the squad with a slight knock, and so ex-first choice Ellie Roebuck has been called up.
With Hannah Hampton injured, it will be intriguing to observe who England manager Sarina Wiegman selects in goal. That news and all the other updates are coming up before the start of the match at 5.30pm GMT.
Squad Updates
The team news is in. Anna Moorhouse will be the goalkeeper for England in the unavailability of Hannah Hampton and Khiara Keating.
England: Moorhouse, Bronze, Charles, Walsh, Le Tissier, Morgan, Mead, Stanway, Russo, Toone, Hemp.
Reserves: Hings, Baggaley, Kendall, Wubben-Moy, Beever-Jones, Kelly, Kearns, Park, Blindkilde Brown, Roebuck, Clinton, Denton, Fisk, Godfrey.
We are awaiting the Chinese lineup now; once it is available, I will provide the update.
Leadership Role
Keira Walsh is leading the Lionesses with Leah Williamson still sidelined. She shared these thoughts before this encounter:
Walsh assumes captaincy as England confront new hurdle in meeting of continental winners.
Maunch Appearance
The upcoming fixture will be Anna Moorhouse’s first appearance for England. She featured in the European Championship squad who triumphed this past summer, but she did not play any minutes with Hannah Hampton in the first-choice keeper position.
Previous Match Recap
The opening match of the Women’s Nations League title decider was held yesterday; review all of the events:
Women’s Nations League: Cata Coll of Spain thwarts Germany, ensuring final remains undecided.
Match Updates
Real-time coverage from the fixture will proceed with important moments and current information as the action unfolds.
