Mark Sampson names England squad for Montenegro game
Mark Sampson has called up two uncapped players to his squad for England Women’s final World Cup qualifier in Montenegro later this month.
England sealed top spot in Group Six, and a place at next summer’s FIFA Women’s World Cup, following their 4-0 victory over Wales last month.
Birmingham City Ladies goalkeeper Becky Spencer, who was part of the England U19 squad that won the European Championship in 2009, and Sunderland Women’s shot-stopper Rachael Laws are the uncapped duo called up by Sampson.
Sampson said: “Having qualified for next summer’s World Cup gives us the opportunity to work with some different players and try some new things for this camp, such as working with other goalkeepers.
“However, we want to finish this qualifying campaign just as we’ve played throughout, with a strong attacking performance and hopefully, another win.
“All of our matches now, such as this and our upcoming match at Wembley against Germany, are a really important part of our preparation for Canada.”
England’s next home match is on Sunday 23 November when they take on Germany at Wembley – the first time England Women will play at the new stadium.
Many of Sampson’s squad, including captain Steph Houghton, Eni Aluko and Jill Scott, played at Wembley when they represented Team GB during the London 2012 Olympics.
Manchester City midfielder Scott admits the squad are eagerly looking forward to playing at the home of English football.
“Since the match was announced, I’ve been speaking with a lot of the team and everyone’s really excited for the game,” Scott said.
“To get another chance to play at Wembley after the Olympics will be an amazing experience for all the players.
“There’s definitely a real buzz around the match so hopefully we’ll get a great crowd for it.
“Germany will be tough opposition but it’s ideal preparation for us ahead of next summer’s World Cup.”