With the 2025 UEFA Women’s European Championship on the horizon, England’s Lionesses are facing fierce competition for places as Sarina Wiegman prepares her squad for the tournament. While many spots seem locked down, there are still several key positions up for grabs. Former England internationals Steph Houghton and Fara Williams weigh in on the potential starting lineup and who might miss out.
Goalkeepers: Mary Earps vs. Hannah Hampton
Mary Earps has long been England’s number one goalkeeper, playing every match during the team’s Euro 2022 triumph and again in their run to the 2023 World Cup final. However, with the emergence of Hannah Hampton, some doubts have crept in.
Houghton believes that, as of now, Earps is not a guaranteed starter. “Prior to the Germany game in October, there were many who favored Hampton,” Houghton said. “Mary is likely the better overall keeper, but Hampton is perhaps superior with her feet.”
Williams, however, places her trust in Earps’ leadership and presence in goal. “Mary has the confidence and composure that a team needs from their keeper,” Williams noted. “If it were up to me, I’d stick with Mary.”
Defenders: Tight Competition for Centre-Back Spots
England’s centre-back positions are highly competitive, with Alex Greenwood, Millie Bright, and Leah Williamson all vying for starting roles. Greenwood has been outstanding for Manchester City, Bright continues to impress for Chelsea, and Williamson, England’s captain, has found her form at Arsenal.
Williams feels that Bright’s physicality and no-nonsense approach make her a must-start, but agrees that Williamson’s leadership ensures her place. “Leah is a certainty with the armband,” Williams said. “Millie brings the power and presence that Sarina likes.”
Houghton, meanwhile, suggested that with three quality options, Wiegman might consider changing the formation to accommodate all three defenders. “Do you adjust the system to fit all of them in?” she questioned. “That would allow the wingers, or Lucy Bronze, to bomb on.”
Midfielders: Who Has the Edge?
England’s midfield depth is one of their biggest strengths, with Keira Walsh, Georgia Stanway, Fran Kirby, Grace Clinton, and Jess Park all in the mix. Walsh, a key figure in the Lionesses’ 2022 success, faces a challenge to retain her starting role, as competition intensifies.
Williams highlighted the importance of finding a player who can push Walsh to improve. “Keira needs competition to avoid complacency,” she explained. “Stanway’s position is nailed on, but the real battle is for who partners her.”
Houghton backs Walsh, Stanway, and Clinton to be the starting trio, citing Clinton’s ability to defend and score goals. “Grace is adding goals to her game and deserves a chance to establish herself,” Houghton said. “She has the potential to be a key player.”
Forwards: Who Will Lead the Line?
With Lauren Hemp sidelined following knee surgery, England’s forward positions are wide open. Alessia Russo remains the only established striker, with Jess Naz still adapting to the role.
Williams believes Russo is secure in the number nine spot, but Houghton points out that James and Mead could also play in attacking roles. “Lauren James is a game-changer with the ball,” Houghton said. “She can make things happen. The question is, where is her best position?”
Williams also sees potential in young Aggie Beever-Jones, who has impressed for Chelsea this season. “She’s clinical when she gets chances,” Williams said. “Her enthusiasm could bring a nice balance to the team.”
Chloe Kelly: Impact Player from the Bench
While players like Chloe Kelly might not start every match, Houghton stressed the importance of her impact off the bench. “Chloe knows her role with England, and while she might want more starts, she has proven that she can make an impact when called upon.”
With fierce competition across the pitch, Sarina Wiegman has plenty of options at her disposal. As the Lionesses continue their preparations for Euro 2025, the race for starting positions will only intensify, with key decisions to be made in the coming months.
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