England vs Argentina: Phil Neville’s Best Available Lionesses Lineup

England manager Phil Neville was left wanting more from his player after an opening 2-1 win over Scotland in the Women’s World Cup, giving an impassioned speech to his players on the pitch at the final whistle and later declaring the Lionesses still have a ‘long way to go’.

With Argentina next up in Group D, Neville will  be hoping that starts now.

Here’s a look at the potential Lionesses XI the England boss could pick…


?Goalkeeper & Defenders

Lucy Bronze

Karen Bardsley (GK) – Will be expecting a quiet day. Argentina only managed one shot on target against Japan and it didn’t come until the 73rd minute.

Lucy Bronze (RB) – Formed an exquisite partnership down the right flank with Nikita Parris against Scotland and fans will be hoping to see more of the same.

Steph Houghton (CB) – At fault for the Scotland goal after giving the ball away in a dangerous area. She will know that was a mistake and will be harder on herself more than anyone.

Millie Bright (CB) – The Chelsea defender is expected to be available despite the heavy fall on her shoulder that ended her participation against Scotland prematurely.

Alex Greenwood (LB) – Was likely to start ahead of Demi Stokes even before the Manchester City left-back was ruled out of the first game and should keep her place now.


Midfielders

Georgia Stanway,Kim Little

Jade Moore (CM) – Neville has been tipped to make changes to his team and one of those could see veteran midfielder Jill Scott rested.

Keira Walsh (CM) – England will have the majority of possession in this game, which means that the Manchester City midfield shield and deep lying play-maker will see a lot of the ball.

Georgia Stanway (AM) – Fran Kirby was disappointing against Scotland, perhaps lacking full match fitness after a stop-start 2019, and could make way for the PFA Young Player of the Year.


Forwards

Ellen White

Nikita Parris (RW) – Scored England’s first goal of the tournament and her first in a World Cup from the penalty spot against Scotland. Will be eyeing another, or, several here.

Ellen White (ST) – Proved just why she has been in the international fold since 2010 after a calm and composed finish that proved to be the winner against Scotland.

Beth Mead (LW) – Quieter than expected against Scotland, but if Argentina look to close the space in central areas it will leave space out wide and that will suit the Arsenal star.


?For a full preview of England vs Argentina, click here.

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