England manager Sarina Wiegman has dismissed suggestions of a crisis within the national team as she announced her 23-player squad for Euro 2025, following the high-profile withdrawals of Mary Earps, Fran Kirby and Millie Bright.
Speaking at a press conference, Wiegman laughed off accusations of turmoil and defended her direct communication style.
"We are not in crisis. It is not an unhappy group," she insisted.
The Dutch coach was unapologetic about her approach to delivering difficult news to players.
Sarina Wiegman insisted there is no crisis at England
Reuters
"I don't beat around the bush when I have to say something and I can't control how players react to what I say," Wiegman said, adding that she always aims to be honest and treat people properly.
The squad includes Chelsea forward Lauren James despite her recent hamstring injury, with Wiegman stating: "It's not a risk.
"We still have a month and she is training really well with her club. She's at the point we hoped she would be at this stage."
The surprise inclusion is 19-year-old forward Michelle Agyemang, on loan at Brighton from Arsenal, who scored on her debut against Belgium in April.
"She brings a certain physicality, she brings something different, so it's great to have her qualities in the team," Wiegman explained.
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Seven players will be making their first major tournament appearance, whilst Lucy Bronze is set for her seventh major tournament and fourth consecutive Euros.
Wiegman addressed the recent withdrawals directly, saying of Earps, Kirby and Bright: "It is sad they are not in the team but at the same time it gives the opportunity for other players to be in the team."
She revealed finding out about vice-captain Bright's withdrawal "in the last couple of days", describing it as "sad" and "disappointing".
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Millie Bright was among the big names missing from the England squad
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The manager emphasised the squad had moved forward.
"At this moment, this situation, we've moved on and this is the squad we have now. I'm very happy with the squad," she stated.
Wiegman also highlighted the increased pressures on modern players, noting: "A lot of attention has increased on the players in recent years too. That's a great thing, but it also brings extra pressure."
Wiegman defended the squad's balance, stating: "I think we have enough experience.
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Sarina Wiegman has insisted her squad have moved on from recent major news considering several players pulling out of selection
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"That's 16 players with major tournament experience, who have played in front of big crowds."
She addressed concerns about midfield depth, explaining the team's tactical flexibility: "We have to announce it as forwards, defenders, midfielders but I think we can move things around, with some players in different positions."
The manager revealed she had not yet decided on her starting eleven.
"Things develop over the tournament and then you make decisions according to what has happened and what is required in the team," she said.
Midfielder Missy Bo Kearns was among those to miss out, with Wiegman describing it as "really hard" to deliver the news.
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