Neville springs surprises in first squad

Phil Neville made three surprise selections in his first England Women squad announced yesterday.

Chelsea defender Anita Asante was called up to her first England squad since 2015, while club-mate Hannah Blundell has a chance of winning her first cap. Everton’s Gabby George, another uncapped player, is included having previously been in the squad for last November’s qualifiers.

“I have been impressed by what I have seen in the past few weeks,” said Neville. “Some exciting, young players have caught my eye, and not just those who have been picked for this squad. They will get an opportunity in the coming months to challenge the established players, who deserve big respect for what they have done.” Captain Steph Houghton has been named in the squad, despite a foot injury, and it is not yet known whether she will be able to play.

The Shebelieves Cup offers Neville the toughest possible start to his England reign, with his team taking on the world’s best side, the US, as well as Europe’s highestranked team, Germany. France, who are ranked sixth, make up the four teams. The Football Association has also confirmed that Mo Marley, who stepped in as England’s interim manager following the sacking of Mark Sampson last year, will continue to work with the squad as Neville’s assistant.

England will depart for the Shebelieves Cup on Sunday, with the first match against France on March 1 in Columbus, Ohio.

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