The Lionesses take on China – Female Friendly Fixture
Introduction
Hello and welcome to the friendly match between the English side and the Chinese squad at the iconic Wembley. An exciting encounter is anticipated with the current Euro titleholders facing the holders of the Asian Cup title.
The iconic Wembley is fully booked for the match, which will see the celebrated Fran Kirby recognized 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 unavailable, it will be interesting to see who head coach Sarina Wiegman selects in goal. This information and additional developments are coming up before the start of the match at 5.30pm GMT.
Team News
The team news is in. Anna Moorhouse starts in goal for England in the non-presence of Hannah Hampton and Khiara Keating.
England's starting eleven: 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.
I am searching for China’s team news now; when it comes through, I will provide the update.
Leadership Role
Keira Walsh is serving as captain for the Lionesses with Leah Williamson still injured. These were her comments before this match:
Walsh takes lead role as England face new test in clash of continental champions.
Maunch Appearance
Tonight’s game will be Anna Moorhouse's first appearance for England. She belonged to the Euros team who triumphed this past summer, but she did not play any minutes with Hannah Hampton in the starting goalkeeper role.
Recent Action
The initial encounter of the women’s Nations League final occurred yesterday; catch up with all of the events:
Women’s Nations League: Cata Coll of Spain thwarts Germany, ensuring final remains undecided.
Match Updates
Live updates from the fixture will continue with key events and current information as the game progresses.