England senior women's team coach Hege Riise has named a 20-player squad for the forthcoming February international camp.
The get-together marks the Lionesses' first official fixture since last year’s SheBelieves Cup in the United States, as we welcome Northern Ireland to the home of England football teams at St. George’s Park on Tuesday 23 February.
The selection will meet up at the team’s usual training base in Staffordshire on Thursday 18 February for a five-day intensive camp that will be operated under strict COVID-19 elite sport guidelines.
The squad consists of a smaller group of players compared to previous camps, as the Lionesses prepare for their involvement in Team GB’s Olympic campaign, while also continuing preparations towards the home UEFA Women's EURO, which is due to take place across England in summer 2022.
Riise continues the trend of previous camps in choosing a blend of youth and experience. Players have been selected based on merit, with a focus on individuals’ physical capability, fitness and versatility to cope with the demands of a major tournament.
Experienced internationals Steph Houghton, Lucy Bronze, Ellen White and Jill Scott – who could receive her 150th cap against Northern Ireland – form an integral part of the squad as England prepare for a three-year period which includes the Tokyo Olympics, Women’s EURO and 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Meanwhile, young prospects Hannah Hampton, Sandy MacIver, Lotte Wubben-Moy and Ella Toone are once again called up and could make their senior international debuts against Northern Ireland having featured in the training camps in September, October and November last year.
“I'm looking forward to leading my first international camp with England," said Riise.
"I've watched a lot of England and club matches and believe this is a group of players who are capable of winning at a major tournament.
England senior women's squad to face Northern Ireland
Goalkeepers: Hannah Hampton (Birmingham City), Sandy MacIver (Everton), Ellie Roebuck (Manchester City)
Defenders:Millie Bright (Chelsea), Lucy Bronze (Manchester City), Rachel Daly (Houston Dash), Alex Greenwood (Manchester City), Steph Houghton (Manchester City), Leah Williamson (Arsenal), Lotte Wubben-Moy (Arsenal)
Midfielders: Chloe Kelly (Manchester City), Jordan Nobbs (Arsenal), Jill Scott (Everton, loan from Manchester City), Georgia Stanway (Manchester City), Ella Toone (Manchester United), Keira Walsh (Manchester City)
Forwards: Bethany England (Chelsea), Lauren Hemp (Manchester City), Fran Kirby (Chelsea), Ellen White (Manchester City)
