Wiegman has three England selection dilemmas ahead of Arnold Clark Cup decider

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Sarina Wiegman instructs her players during the Arnold Clark Cup match against Italy (Image: Getty Images)
Sarina Wiegman instructs her players during the Arnold Clark Cup match against Italy (Image: Getty Images)

England's Lionesses meet Belgium in what is essentially an Arnold Clark Cup decider in Bristol, with the hosts looking to preserve their 100 per cent record in the tournament and lift the trophy.

Speaking at St George's Park on Tuesday, Sarina Wiegman said fans can expect changes from the Lionesses side that beat Italy 2-1 in the second matchday on Sunday. This could mean regulars such as Millie Bright, Leah Williamson and Georgia Stanway are restored to the starting XI.

But what are the big team selection calls facing England's Dutch coach as she looks to add more silverware to the cabinet whilst also finding out more about her squad with the World Cup looming into view this summer? And will Wednesday night be an indicator of England's strongest XI?

Here are the biggest decisions facing Wiegman ahead of a huge game, the last international until April.

Will Russo or Daly lead the line?

Wiegman could throw a curveball and give Ebony Salmon her first start of the Arnold Clark Cup or even try Lauren Hemp or Chloe Kelly through the middle as part of her forward line. But in all likeliness, Alessia Russo or Rachel Daly will be given another chance to impress in the England No.9 shirt.

Earps reacts to FIFA Best nomination and on season so far with Man Utd dqxikeidqkikdinvEarps reacts to FIFA Best nomination and on season so far with Man Utd

Russo is probably the favourite to start. The Manchester United striker started the first game against South Korea, scored a goal and put in one of her best recent performances in an England shirt.

She has had slightly fewer minutes than Daly in the tournament and that may be a big factor in who Wiegman selects. Daly has a chance of the golden boot after her two goals against Italy, so we should see her at some stage, although it might be hard to predict which position she could feature in.

The debate over who starts up front for the Lionesses continues to rage on, but Wiegman may be about to drop a bit hint over who is her first choice ahead of the World Cup.

Wiegman has three England selection dilemmas ahead of Arnold Clark Cup deciderThe England side that started in the win over Italy on Sunday (2023 The FA)

Does Hemp keep her place?

Lauren Hemp was one the first names on Wiegman's team sheet at Euro 2022, but the emergence of fellow wide-forward Lauren James on the international scene, who now seems a guaranteed starter, along with the return to form and fitness of her club teammate Chloe Kelly, means she suddenly faces a battle to maintain her place in the starting XI.

James and Kelly started on the flanks for the win over South Korea and were arguably England's best two players on the night. Hemp did return against Italy and produced a lively performance, but it is hard to see how Wiegman can leave out James and Kelly based on form.

The England boss did state on Tuesday that we can "expect to see changes" again from the team that beat Italy. However, as one of the most senior and talented players in the England squad, if anyone can retain her place, it should be Manchester City star Hemp.

Either way, it will be one of the hardest decisions Wiegman has to make.

Could Greenwood be left out?

In theory, the Lionesses could still name a very strong starting XI without Alex Greenwood. But in reality, the Manchester City defender has been one of the most in-form players in the Women's Super League in recent months and has shone in the first two games at the Arnold Clark Cup.

Against South Korea, Greenwood was given the nod over Daly at left-back and responded with a superb all-action display, rampaging down the left wing at will whilst also remaining solid in defence. Her set pieces caused problems and she set up Russo for the third goal of the 4-0 win.

Then, against Italy, Greenwood was switched inside to centre-half, where she has played for City this season, and took the captain's armband with Leah Williamson and Millie Bright rested. Although England did concede in the second half, it was another measured display from the 29-year-old until she was replaced by Arsenal's Lotte Wubben-Moy in the 63rd minute.

Man Utd boss Skinner sends firm message to Arsenal over Russo contract sagaMan Utd boss Skinner sends firm message to Arsenal over Russo contract saga

Greenwood may struggle to get a place at centre-back this time. The return to the team of Keira Walsh after illness means skipper Leah Williamson should retake her spot in defence after adopting a midfield role against South Korea.

But Greenwood will hoping to be given the nod at left-back, after having to play understudy to Daly during the European Championship last summer. Wiegman can always surprise with her team selection, but restoring Daly to left-back at the expense of Greenwood in her current form would be a huge call.

Jack Lacey-Hatton

Sarina Wiegman, Women's football, England women's football team

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