Excitement is palpable for the Women's World Cup 2023 starting July 20, especially for Euro 2022 winners England. As we gear up for the tournament Down Under, let's focus on the top five England women players expected to make a significant impact.
5. Lauren James (Winger, Chelsea)
Lauren James, only 21, expects to star for the Lionesses at this summer's World Cup. The explosive Chelsea winger's quick footwork and laser-like precision in delivering crosses make her an essential part of England's attacking Arsenal.
“Having a great player around me, my brother, has helped my understanding of the game,” she says of her Reece James, Chelea's men's team standout defender.
With each game, James is carving out a reputation as a formidable winger. Lauren is ready to make her mark for England at this World Cup.
4. Lauren Hemp (Forward, Manchester City)
Next up, we have the tenacious Lauren Hemp. The Manchester City forward is an exceptional talent, and she brings a vibrant energy to the England squad.
Hemp's dynamic pace, knack for scoring goals, and exquisite ball control make her a genuine threat to opposition defenses. Long hailed as England's premier young prodigy, she has dominated the youth scene, clinching the esteemed Professional Footballers Association's Young Player of the Year award in four out of the five seasons spanning 2018 to 2022.
Keep an eye on the 22-year-old as she's poised to make a strong statement at this World Cup.
3. Mary Earps (Goalie, Manchester United)
Behind every cup-winning team, there's a great goalie. That was the case for Mary Earps, who powered the Lionesses to triumph last summer's Euros.
FIFA honored Earps as Best Goalkeeper at their 2022 annual awards last February. The undisputed number one has earned 34 caps with England, with many more clean sheets in her future. She kept 14 in the WSL alone last season, snagging the Golden Glove as a Red Devil.
2. Lucy Bronze (Defender, FC Barcelona)
Despite an ongoing injury, Lucy Bronze is actively preparing for a return in England's second group-stage match against Denmark in the World Cup. She was critical in securing England's unprecedented Euros triumph last summer.
In addition to being a stellar defender, Bronze bolsters the offensive with her precision in crossing and power in shooting.
Considering Bronze's exceptional track record, vast experience (she's a three-time Champions League winner), and proven ability to excel in high-stakes situations, she is expected to be one of the standout players in the 2023 Women's World Cup.
1. Alessia Russo (Forward, Arsenal)
And finally, at number one, we have Arsenal's newest signing, Alessia Russo.
With exceptional technical skills, remarkable vision, and a keen sense of goal, Russo is the one to watch out for at the World Cup 2023.
Russo spearheads England's attack, and her performances could be critical to England's success in the tournament. Let's hope she can recreate that fantastic backheel goal against Sweden last summer and win the Golden Boot.
Photo: Instagram/alessiarusso99
