Known as a bit of a tinkerman, even those most used to Phil Neville’s mix-it-up style baulked at the eight changes for such a statement game against Japan. He has made 12 in the three games. Having qualified, only top of the group was up for grabs, but with the USA and France both throwing down their title credentials, the former in some style, this was a chance for England to announce themselves as serious contenders in a side of the draw where they could meet either team.
Dropping the “crot” (cross/shot) queen Beth Mead, the Women’s Super League record goalscorer Nikita Parris and the “mini-Messi” Fran Kirby certainly turned heads. But with England struggling to create, something had to be done. Making their World Cup debuts, Georgia Stanway and Rachel Daly were two of those to come in.
Related: Ellen White’s double sinks Japan and seals top spot in group for England
Related: Japan 0-2 England: Women's World Cup 2019 – as it happened
Continue reading...