England v China – Female Friendly International
Overview
Hello and welcome to the friendly game between England and the Chinese squad at the iconic Wembley. An exciting encounter is anticipated with the current Euro titleholders competing against the reigning Asia Cup winners.
The iconic Wembley is sold-out for the event, which will see Fran Kirby honored pre-match after her retirement from the national team before the European Championship this past summer.
The team news will be revealed soon, but there was a last minute squad update for England. On Friday, the goalkeeper Khiara Keating withdrew from the squad with a minor injury, and so former number one Ellie Roebuck has been added to the squad.
With Hannah Hampton out of action, it will be intriguing to observe who head coach Sarina Wiegman selects in goal. Those details along with further updates are incoming before the opening whistle at 17:30 GMT.
Squad Updates
The lineups have been announced. Anna Moorhouse is the starting keeper for England in the absence of Hannah Hampton and Khiara Keating.
England's starting eleven: Moorhouse, Bronze, Charles, Walsh, Le Tissier, Morgan, Mead, Stanway, Russo, Toone, Hemp.
Substitutes: Hings, Baggaley, Kendall, Wubben-Moy, Beever-Jones, Kelly, Kearns, Park, Blindkilde Brown, Roebuck, Clinton, Denton, Fisk, Godfrey.
Details are being sought for the Chinese lineup now; as soon as I have it, I will provide the update.
Leadership Role
Keira Walsh is leading the Lionesses with Leah Williamson still sidelined. These were her comments before this clash:
Walsh assumes captaincy as England confront new hurdle in meeting of continental winners.
Maunch Appearance
Tonight’s game will be Anna Moorhouse’s first appearance for England. She belonged to the European Championship squad who triumphed this past summer, but she remained on the bench with Hannah Hampton in the first-choice keeper position.
Recent Action
The first leg of the Women’s Nations League title decider occurred yesterday; get the details on all of the highlights:
Women’s Nations League: Cata Coll of Spain thwarts Germany, ensuring final remains undecided.
Live Feed
Real-time coverage from the match will proceed with key events and latest developments as the match proceeds.