England WU17s set sights on EURO finals

The England women's under-17s squad has been named by head coach Kerri Welsh for the upcoming UEFA Women’s U17 European Championship qualifiers in Croatia.  

Welsh has selected a squad of 21 for the Young Lionesses, who will play three fixtures in Group A2 as they look to secure their spot at this summer’s UEFA Women’s U17 European Championship finals in Northern Ireland.  

Welsh’s side will first face Türkiye on Friday 13 March (1pm GMT), before taking on mini tournament hosts Croatia on Monday 16 March (11am GMT), and finishing the qualifying stage against Italy on Thursday 19 March (11am GMT).  

To claim one of the seven remaining spots in the finals in May, England must finish first in the group. In round one of the qualifying campaign in October, England topped their group, beating Scotland, Poland and Montenegro to advance in League A.  

“We’re really excited to be back together as we push to secure qualification for this summer’s EUROs," said Welsh, ahead of the trip.

"We know the three games ahead will be tough and test the squad, but we are fully focused and take real confidence from our performance in the first round of qualifying. I know everyone is excited to continue the campaign. 

"Fixtures like these when there is a bit of pressure on the line are hugely valuable for the Young Lionesses – giving the players the chance to learn, develop and keep progressing along the England pathway.”