United Women's potential shown in England win

Lionesses head coach Sarina Wiegman made 10 changes to the XI that held USA to a 0-0 draw, with Grace Clinton, Gabby George, Maya Le Tissier and Millie Turner (making her first start) all involved.

The group’s inclusion in the team underlines the progress that is being made by a young, exciting United Women squad that has plenty of room to grow under Marc Skinner. 

Clinton scored what became the winning goal in just the eighth minute, as the highlight of another impressive individual performance for the national team.

Grace has now scored three goals in five England appearances and she is being tipped for a key role during next summer’s European Championship in Switzerland. 

 

Right place, right time! 💥 pic.twitter.com/H7NBr8axE3

— Lionesses (@Lionesses) December 3, 2024

Speaking after the win, Wiegman gave this assessment of Clinton’s performance: “In the first half especially, she felt very comfortable and players close to her felt very comfortable - that was really good to see. What I would like to see more from her is that she sees the overall picture, even when the pace of the game is faster than it was tonight. You can tell she is on the way and is improving. Hopefully she keeps showing that and also [shows it] with her club.”

PRAISE IN THE PRESS

Journalist Suzanne Wrack wrote in the Guardian's match report: “Clinton’s star is fast rising, her guile and skill undeniable after a season-long loan with Tottenham last year and a blistering impact in Manchester United’s starting XI since September. At a bitterly cold Bramall Lane on Tuesday night those talents were on display once more in England’s 1-0 win, but another characteristic was also on show: she is a leader.”

Wrack continued, with this observation: “When England had possession Clinton wanted the ball, arm raised regularly, calling for the pass; when she could see the better option elsewhere, she would point to where it should go or to whom should go; if she wanted it into her feet she would gesture with both hands towards the floor. That level of leadership from one of the most critical creative areas of the pitch is exciting, and unusual in someone so young and inexperienced at the top level.”

 

Your England Player of the Match connected by @EE...

Grace Clinton! 👏 pic.twitter.com/TFpw44935f

— Lionesses (@Lionesses) December 4, 2024

Our four United Women players in the England squad will now return to Carrington to begin preparations for this Sunday’s WSL match against Liverpool at Leigh Sports Village. 

Get your tickets for the occasion and be part of another huge crowd.