England face China – Women's Friendly International
Preamble
Welcome everyone to the non-competitive fixture between the English side and the Chinese squad at London’s Wembley. The match is set to be a thriller with the reigning European champions facing the holders of the Asian Cup title.
The home of English football is sold-out for the occasion, which will see Fran Kirby celebrated pre-match after her retirement from the national team before the Euros this past summer.
The team news will be shared imminently, but there was a last minute squad update for England. On Friday, 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 injured, it will be intriguing to observe who the Lionesses' coach Sarina Wiegman selects in goal. This information and additional developments are coming up before kick-off at 17:30 GMT.
Team News
Squad details are now available. Anna Moorhouse will be the goalkeeper 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.
I am searching for the Chinese lineup now; once it is available, I will share it.
Captaincy Update
Keira Walsh is captaining the Lionesses with Leah Williamson still injured. Here’s what she had to say before this clash:
Walsh assumes captaincy as England confront new hurdle in meeting of continental winners.
Debut Alert
Tonight’s game will be Anna Moorhouse’s debut for England. She was a part of the European Championship squad who won this past summer, but she remained on the bench with Hannah Hampton in the starting goalkeeper role.
Recent Action
The opening match of the final of the Women’s Nations League was held yesterday; catch up with all of the highlights:
Women’s Nations League: Cata Coll of Spain thwarts Germany, ensuring final remains undecided.
Real-Time Coverage
Live feed from the fixture will proceed with important moments and current information as the game progresses.
