England Women’s National Football Team are back in action this week, with friendlies against Austria and Italy in Spain, marking the start of their 2024 campaign.
Sarina Wiegman’s side will be looking to build on their success of recent years, having won the Euros in 2022. However, there are a number of challenges that the team needs to address before they can start thinking about major trophies again.
Some of the key issues that Sarina Wiegman will have to solve in England Women’s National Football Team.
1. Who will be captain?
Steph Houghton has been England’s captain for many years, but she has struggled with injuries in recent times. Leah Williamson has captained the side in her absence, and she could be a long-term option. However, there are other players who could also be considered, such as Millie Bright and Lucy Bronze.
2. What formation to use?
The 3-5-2, instrumental in the World Cup run, has yielded mixed results post-tournament. Does Wiegman stick with it, refine it, or revert to the familiar 4-3-3? Finding the right balance between attacking flair and defensive solidity is crucial.
Sarina Wiegman has experimented with different formations during her time in charge, and it is not yet clear what her preferred system is. She may need to find a formation that suits the players she has available, and that can be flexible enough to cope with different opponents.
3. Who will play center forward?
Ellen White’s retirement leaves a void. Lauren Hemp, with her pace and versatility, is a potential solution. Beth England’s goal scoring prowess is undeniable, while Nikita Parris offers experience. Sarina Wiegman must choose who best complements the attacking unit.
4. How to get the attack to score more goals?
Despite boasting talent like Beth Mead and Fran Kirby, England’s attack hasn’t always been prolific. Creating more scoring opportunities and converting them consistently are key aspects Wiegman needs to address.
England have a talented attacking line-up, but they have not always been as prolific as they could be. Sarina Wiegman will need to find a way to get her players firing on all cylinders, and to create more chances for them.
5. How to use substitutes effectively?
Substitutes can play a crucial role in matches, but England have not always used them effectively in recent times. Wiegman will need to find a way to make better use of her bench, and to bring on players who can make a positive impact on the game.
6. Give young players experience
England have a number of talented young players coming through, and Wiegman will need to find a way to give them experience at international level. This will be important for the future of the team, and it could also help them to win trophies in the short term.
7. Juggling Fitness and Form
With a congested schedule on the horizon, managing player fitness and form becomes paramount. Rotation will be key, and Sarina Wiegman must ensure fatigue doesn’t hinder performance while maintaining momentum.
These are just few of the challenges that Sarina Wiegman faces as she looks to lead England Women’s National Football Team to success in 2024. The friendlies against Austria and Italy will be a good opportunity for her to experiment and to try out new things. If she can solve these problems, then England will be in a good position to challenge for major trophies again.
FAQs
1. Who will be England’s new captain after Steph Houghton’s injury?
The decision is undecided, with Leah Williamson, Millie Bright, and Lucy Bronze in contention.
2. What formation will Sarina Wiegman use going forward?
Wiegman favors flexibility, but finding a system that suits available players and remains adaptable is key.
3. Who will replace Ellen White as England women’s national football team main striker?
Lauren Hemp, Beth England, and Nikita Parris are potential candidates, but a clear solution is yet to emerge.
4. How can England improve their goal scoring record?
Creating more chances, maximizing attacking talent, and potentially tweaking tactics are crucial areas to address.
5. How will young players be integrated into the Lionesses’ squad?
Balancing experience with youth development is critical for the team’s future, and Wiegman needs to find the right approach.
Content Contributor: Sridhar Naresh
