In this video
- The England coach thinks the team is very well prepared, and everyone came through the last session well. Lauren James is in a good place after coming on last week and is ready to get more minutes.
- Asked if missing the World Cup gives her a new appreciation, the England player said she has probably held some anxiety until this moment. She wanted to be here and experience another tournament for England.
- Asked if this is a title defence or a first away from home, the England player said it is new territory. She is not necessarily looking at it as a defence, but as a new challenge and opportunity.
“…I think first comes the respect for her as a human, as a coach.”
- Asked if Lauren James could start, the England coach said she would not give the line-up. James played 30 minutes last week, so she can play more than that, which the coach thinks says enough.
- Asked how she handles the expectation, the England coach said it does not feel that different, as it has always been high. England have to be the best prepared, with the best game plans, and able to adapt if necessary.
- Asked about downtime in camp, the England player said there has been lots of Monopoly, cards and a boat trip on arrival day. Love Island is the discussion around the breakfast table.
- Asked if talk of a new England was a way to reset the group, the coach said it was their way. The team has been a bit in transition, and while England cherish what they did, they have to move on.
As England prepares to defend their UEFA Women’s Euro title, head coach Sarina Wiegman and star players like Leah Williamson open up about the team’s mindset, Lauren James’ return from injury, and the fresh challenges of competing away from home. James is set to play more minutes after returning against Jamaica, and her presence could be a major boost for the Lionesses.
The squad appears well-prepared and tightly bonded following intensive tactical work and off-pitch unity during their stay in Switzerland. Leah Williamson reflects on her comeback after missing the World Cup, while other players address how they’re embracing leadership, adapting to pressure, and preparing new faces for their first major tournament.
Coach Wiegman emphasizes that this campaign isn’t just a title defense, it’s a new mission. England’s camp is focused on day-by-day performance, adaptability, and honoring the high expectations placed on them since their 2022 triumph. With key players like Alex Greenwood stepping up and fresh talents maturing, England looks determined to carve out a new legacy on foreign soil.
