England boost with Walsh back training at WC

The Barcelona star was stretchered off against Denmark and was absent for the 6-1 masterclass over China as England strolled into the knockout rounds. But fears of a serious injury have abated and she trained at England's base on Australia's Central Coast.

"All 23 players are out for training today at Central Coast Stadium," the Lionesses tweeted. England face Nigeria on Monday in Brisbane. Coach Sarina Wiegman switched England's usual 4-3-3 formation to 3-5-2 against China because of Walsh's absence and it paid off.

Wiegman brought in Manchester United's Katie Zelem for Walsh and Jess Carter and Lauren Hemp for the benched Chloe Kelly and Ella Toone, with a five-person midfield giving them more freedom to roam.

Whether she retains the same set-up against Randy Waldrum's Nigeria remains to be seen given the threat of Barcelona goal machine Asisat Oshoala and Racing Louisville dangerwoman Uchenna Kanu.

 

August 6, 2023