If expectations were high after the Lionesses won their first ever major trophy this summer, the hopes of fans that Wiegman’s players could go one step further in Australia and New Zealand were only raised by England’s convincing victory over the United States - though their opponents’ subsequent defeats, completing their first run of three defeats since 1993, has somewhat devalued their achievement, since the side that lifted the last two World Cups are patently not at full strength.
On Friday, England have an opportunity to prove their mettle again as they come up against formidable opposition in the form of Japan, who were world champions in 2011 before knocking the Lionesses out of the 2015 semi-finals.
Since, the Nadeshiko have fallen to three defeats at the hands of England, but their squad - dubbed ‘technically unbelievable’ by Lioness midfielder Georgia Stanway - is packed with talent, several of whom are known to Wiegman’s players as Women’s Super League team-mates and opponents.
The Dutch coacb has a number of tricky absences to contend with, including Euro 2022 mainstay Lucy Bronze and in-form Arsenal midfielder Jordan Nobbs. As Wiegman slowly works her team into the best possible shape ahead of next year’s tournament, she has some huge decisions to make. With Alessia Russo returning to action after missing October’s friendlies, should she slot straight back into the side, or should Lauren James, who has been on fire for club Chelsea, be given a chance to claim the striker berth?
Here’s how we think England will line-up against Japan on Friday....
Since, the Nadeshiko have fallen to three defeats at the hands of England, but their squad - dubbed ‘technically unbelievable’ by Lioness midfielder Georgia Stanway - is packed with talent, several of whom are known to Wiegman’s players as Women’s Super League team-mates and opponents.
5. RB - Rachel Daly
Former Houston Dash captain Rachel Daly will prove another vital leader in a young back line. So far this season she’s scored five and assisted two in six Women’s Super League appearances as striker for Aston Villa but is adept at moving between positions.
6. CM - Keira Walsh
As injuries force Wiegman to improvise all over the pitch, one player the Dutch coach would find less ‘replaceable’ is Euro 22 final player of the match Keira Walsh. It will be interesting to see how life at new club Barcelona is impacting her game - how much better can she get?
7. CM - Ella Toone
It took the 23-year-old a little longer than expected to open her Women’s Super League account this season after a scintillating Euros, but the Mancunian should be ‘buzzing’ after signing a contract extension to keep her at her hometown club until 2026.
8. CAM - Georgia Stanway
In her pre-match remarks, Stanway said she believes the Lionesses will have the upper hand physically against a technically-gifted Japan side. The 23-year-old may well lead the charge on that front, having already been shown five yellow cards in a Bundesliga season which is only seven games old. She’s not afraid to get stuck into her new club, and looks to be enjoying herself at Bayern Munich.