The Lionesses v China – Women's Friendly International
Introduction
Hello and welcome to the non-competitive fixture between England and the Chinese squad at Wembley Stadium. An exciting encounter is anticipated with the current Euro titleholders facing the holders of the Asian Cup title.
The home of English football is sold-out for the event, which will see the celebrated Fran Kirby recognized pre-match after her international retirement before the European Championship this past summer.
The team news will be announced shortly, but there was a late squad update for England. On Friday, the goalkeeper Khiara Keating withdrew from the squad with a small issue, and so previous starter Ellie Roebuck has been called up.
With Hannah Hampton out of action, it will be notable to find out who the Lionesses' coach Sarina Wiegman selects in goal. That news and all the other updates are incoming before the opening whistle at 5:30 in the evening GMT.
Team News
The lineups have been announced. Anna Moorhouse will be the goalkeeper 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.
We are awaiting the squad from China now; when it comes through, I will share it.
Captaincy Update
Keira Walsh is serving as captain for the Lionesses with Leah Williamson still sidelined. Here’s what she had to say before this encounter:
Walsh takes lead role as England face new test in clash of continental champions.
Maunch Appearance
Tonight’s game will be Anna Moorhouse's debut for England. She featured in the Euro-winning side who won this past summer, but she did not feature with Hannah Hampton in the starting goalkeeper role.
Earlier Fixture Update
The opening match of the final of the Women’s Nations League occurred yesterday; catch up with all of the events:
Women’s Nations League: Spain’s Cata Coll denies Germany to keep final in the balance.
Real-Time Coverage
Live feed from the game will proceed with key events and timely updates as the match proceeds.
