Kiera Walsh steps out the women’s nation league after sustaining an injury.

Injured Barcelona Midfielder Misses Upcoming Matches

A Barcelona midfielder is set to miss upcoming matches against Scotland and the Netherlands due to an injury. The absence of this player from the squad has raised concerns about the team’s performance in these matches.

Tottenham Striker’s Surgery Results in Absence

Adding to the team’s challenges, Tottenham striker Beth England won’t be available for selection due to her recent surgery to address a hip problem. This absence could potentially impact the team’s offensive capabilities.

Continuity with World Cup Final Players

Despite these setbacks, Lionesses head coach Sarina Wiegman has chosen to stick with the players who played a crucial role in leading England to the Women’s World Cup final held in August. This decision reflects the coach’s confidence in the squad that achieved success in Australia.

Notable Absences Due to Injuries

However, some notable players like Arsenal forward Beth Mead and Chelsea playmaker Fran Kirby will not be part of the squad as they continue their recovery from knee injuries. Their absence may leave gaps in the team’s attacking and creative options.

Inclusion of New Faces

On a positive note, the squad includes some fresh faces, such as Aston Villa midfielder Lucy Staniforth, Manchester City midfielder Jess Park, and Manchester United’s Maya Le Tissier. Their presence in the squad adds depth and new talent to the team.

Upcoming Matches and Nations League

The Lionesses are gearing up for two upcoming matches. They will face Scotland in a derby match, and then play against the Netherlands away in Utrecht. These matches will be part of the Nations League campaign, where England finds itself in a challenging group alongside Belgium, the Netherlands, and Scotland.

Olympics Aspiration and Nations League Importance

The significance of the Nations League campaign lies in its potential impact on Team GB’s participation in the next year’s Olympics. To secure a place in the Olympics, England needs to reach the final of the Nations League. This adds extra motivation and pressure to the upcoming matches.

Coach’s Perspective and Fan Support

Coach Sarina Wiegman acknowledges the limited time for reflection after the World Cup final and emphasizes the need for the players to be fresh and perform at their best. She anticipates tough competition from Scotland and the Netherlands but looks forward to the fans’ support, particularly in Sunderland, where there is a strong connection with the north-east and enthusiastic fan support is expected.