England boss Sarina Wiegman has named her squad, including a call-up for Erica Meg Parkinson. Wiegman said Parkinson was “speechless” when she phoned her to give her the news of the call-up.
Wiegman Explains Parkinson’s Selection
Wiegman addressed why she called up 17-year-old Erica Meg Parkinson, highlighting it as a significant leap for her. She said that the 23-player squad allows for such decisions. Wiegman added that Parkinson has performed well with the youth teams.
Wiegman noted a perceived lack of depth in the senior team as a factor. She stated that they look at the next available players when considering options.
Wiegman said, “Of course we were going to look at who is next [after injuries], Erica has gone through the path way. She plays in Portugal, she has done well with the under-23s.
“She’s a very dynamic, attacking midfielder, wants to go forward. She’s also very aggressive and pretty technical. It’s a big step from the U23 and the Portuguese league to go to senior level.
“She gets the opportunity to show where she stands at our level.”
Expectations for Parkinson in the Senior Squad
Wiegman stated that she does not expect Erica Meg Parkinson to be in the starting line-up immediately. She hopes Parkinson can quickly adapt to the level required.
Wiegman added that she “is not the first one she would put on the pitch” against Spain.
Injury Concerns and Squad Depth
Wiegman addressed the injuries and missing key players, stating, “We know this is what we live in. Every time we have some injuries, There’s so many games to play, it’s very high level. This is what we have, when someone gets injured we think, who is next?”
“We follow a lot of players closely, see what they have done, see how they are in form and when someone gets injured we know what options we have and that is how we work.”
Wiegman commented on Ellie Roebuck’s injury, sustained in Aston Villa’s defeat by Chelsea. She said Roebuck will be assessed over the next couple of days. Wiegman added that the expectation is that Roebuck will be fine in a couple of days.
Update on Leah Williamson’s Fitness
Wiegman addressed Leah Williamson’s fitness, who has missed the last two Arsenal fixtures through injury. She said Williamson had some small setbacks, but overall, she’s doing really well. Wiegman noted that when Williamson plays, she’s playing really well.
Wiegman stated that both Arsenal and Williamson herself have been careful with her return. She believes Williamson is going to make it. Wiegman stated she would put Williamson on the squad anyway [if it was a friendly], because she thinks she’s in a good place and she’s building. She added that the niggle she picked up is not the worst, but it just takes a little bit time and they just need to be careful with her.
Wiegman stated with all she’s done for the Lionesses, there is complete confidence in her choices. She added congratulations to Parkinson.