Wiegman’s rising stars look ready to sparkle
ENGLAND’S Euros-winning squad can rightly be described as a golden generation but the last international camp of 2022 has shown the future of the Lionesses is perhaps even brighter. Injuries and illness to first-team regulars including Leah Williamson, Lucy Bronze, Fran Kirby and Lauren Hemp have seen Sarina Wiegman hand a number of young players opportunities to showcase their potential.
The average age of the XI who started every game of the Euros was 27 but only four from the starting side that beat Japan 4-0 on Friday were over 25. Niamh Charles, 23, and Esme Morgan, 22, were given their first international bows in defence alongside the experienced Millie Bright and Rachel Daly. The super subs of the Euros, Alessia Russo and Ella Toone, are now regular starters at the age of 23, while Wembley final match-winner Chloe Kelly is 24.
Ebony Salmon and Lauren James, both 21, were brought off the bench just past the hour mark and combined to create the third goal. But the highlight was 21-year-old Jess Park, who was a late call-up to the squad after Fran Kirby dropped out with illness, scoring 79 seconds after coming on for her debut. Park said: ‘There is loads of talent coming through in England. As you can see, the coaches are not afraid to pick youngsters and give us the opportunity. There is massive depth.’
Her goal was assisted by Salmon, who she has played with in every age group for England. The retirement of all-time top goalscorer Ellen White after the Euros was well-timed given that the talent coming through looks ready to flourish. Salmon said: ‘The fans should be excited, we are excited to be here. As young players, the dream is to play for the Lionesses and to be here at such a young age is big for us.
‘The quality here is so high that no one is just going to walk straight into the team. You have got to work for it. I’ve got to be patient, wait to get my chance and do what I know I can do when I do get that chance.’
Wiegman admitted she may have ‘headaches’ when the injured players return, but the incredible depth available to the England manager can only be a blessing with the World Cup just eight months away. ‘It looks good!’ she said. ‘We are all preparing for the World Cup, so it is really good to see other players and see where they are at.’ England play Norway in their final game of 2022 in Murcia, Spain, tomorrow.