Wiegman explains Potter call-up and squad selection

Sarina Wiegman says Lexi Potter's impressive start to the season earned the young midfielder her first senior England call-up as the Lionesses prepare for next month's FIFA Women's World Cup 2027 European qualifying play-off against Greece.

The Chelsea player is the only new face included in Wiegman's squad, announced on Tuesday 29 September, with the England head coach highlighting the progress Potter has made over the past 12 months.

Lionesses squad for World Cup play-off against Greece revealed

"I think she's grown a lot," said Wiegman in her live press conference on the official England app.

"Last season, we already kept a close eye on her because she was already getting into the squad, getting playing minutes, doing really well.

"But I think she started this season so well and her performances have really impressed us, so she really deserved this call-up."

Wiegman also believes Potter has already shown she can compete at the highest level and adapt quickly to life in the senior international environment.

"She's shown at Chelsea that she can start against any team," Wiegman added.

"For example, the last game on Sunday, I think she did really well against top, top Arsenal. I thought it was a very great game to watch anyway, but the levels were very high.

"I know that when you come in for the first time, it can be a little bit overwhelming. But what I've seen from her is that she comes onto a pitch and, no matter who she plays against, she's just going to play. And she's comfortable."

Wiegman also addressed the absence of two-time EURO winners Ella Toone and Chloe Kelly from the squad.

"The main reason is that I think the levels weren't what I expected from them on the pitch," she explained.

"I've had the conversation with them, and there's a big competition going on too. And this is what it is."

While acknowledging the difficulty of the decision, Wiegman reiterated her confidence in both players and challenged them to respond positively.

"I really believe in them. I still believe in them," she said.

"We expect a bit more and we know they can bring more.

"There's competition going on. So it's about talent, about playing minutes, about the competition that's going on, and I hope they can step up and show what they can do, because I'm convinced that they can do better and I think they are convinced about that too."

Wiegman added: "I hope they respond to it really well. Where needed, we will support them too. So, I hope they come back even better than they were before.”

Lionesses squad for World Cup play-off against Greece revealed