England face the Chinese team – Women’s Exhibition International
Preamble
Greetings and welcome to the exhibition game between the English side and China at Wembley Stadium. An exciting encounter is anticipated with the European Championship holders taking on the current Asian Cup champions.
The iconic Wembley is sold-out for the occasion, which will see the celebrated Fran Kirby recognized pre-match after her departure from the England squad before the Euro tournament this past summer.
Lineup details will be revealed soon, but there was a last minute squad update for England. On Friday, Khiara Keating withdrew from the squad with a small issue, and so former number one Ellie Roebuck has been called up.
With Hannah Hampton unavailable, it will be notable to find out who head coach Sarina Wiegman selects in goal. Those details along with further updates are on the way before the start of the match at 17:30 GMT.
Team News
The lineups have been announced. Anna Moorhouse is the starting keeper for England in the absence of Hannah Hampton and Khiara Keating.
The Lionesses: Moorhouse, Bronze, Charles, Walsh, Le Tissier, Morgan, Mead, Stanway, Russo, Toone, Hemp.
Bench: Hings, Baggaley, Kendall, Wubben-Moy, Beever-Jones, Kelly, Kearns, Park, Blindkilde Brown, Roebuck, Clinton, Denton, Fisk, Godfrey.
Details are being sought for China’s team news now; when it comes through, I will provide the update.
Captaincy Update
Keira Walsh is leading the Lionesses with Leah Williamson still unfit. She shared these thoughts before this match:
Walsh assumes captaincy as England confront new hurdle in meeting of continental winners.
First Cap News
This evening’s match will be Anna Moorhouse's debut for England. She featured in the European Championship squad who won this past summer, but she remained on the bench with Hannah Hampton in the first-choice keeper position.
Earlier Fixture Update
The first leg of the final of the Women’s Nations League took place 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 game will proceed with key events and timely updates as the match proceeds.
