Sarina Wiegman has defended her team selection for England's 4-3 friendly defeat by Germany at Wembley, insisting she will not make changes for the sake of it. The Lionesses boss faced questions after naming a familiar starting XI, with in-form players like Aggie Beever-Jones, Grace Clinton, Maya Le Tissier, Alex Greenwood and Jess Park on the bench.
“We’re playing Germany. That’s a high-level team. Players are knocking on the door, competing for minutes and I’m not going to make changes for the sake of it,” Wiegman said. “I’m going to start getting ready for July 2, all of my decisions are based on that.” That date marks England's opening match of Euro 2025 in Switzerland, where they will defend their European title.
Wiegman expressed satisfaction with her starting lineup and the opportunity to introduce substitutes, adding: “I’m happy with the team. What we wanted was to see other players, which we did, and we know there is a huge competition going on and that’s good for the team.” She also defended the inclusion of Leah Williamson at centre-back over Greenwood, citing balance in possession and defence.
The England manager also opted for Ella Toone in the No 10 role ahead of Park or Clinton, stating: “Ella has played well for us. These are high-level games, Grace is getting there, she’s a different type of player. Park is doing well. They’re challenging and fighting for minutes.”
Germany manager Christian Wück praised his side's performance in the first 30 minutes but noted they allowed England back into the game. “I would hesitate to say England were weak at any point,” he said. “We were so dominant and strong in the first 30 minutes. But we failed to continue with full pressure and allowed England back into the game.”
