Wiegman encouraged by Mead back, England ready for must-win clash vs Netherlands

Sarina Wiegman has confirmed goalkeeper Mary Earps will captain England to face the Netherlands in a must-win game at Wembley Stadium on Friday evening.

Regular Lionesses captain Leah Williamson has been missing for some time with a long-term injury, while deputy Millie Bright has recently been ruled out with an "angry" knee, according to club manager Emma Hayes.

It leaves England short of experienced options defensively, but Wiegman says her sides' shape and style won't change in Bright's absence, and that she's happy with the options she's trialled to replace the central defender.

"We thought Millie would make it," Wiegman began. "But we always know the next step - we always think of scenarios and options. We've tried out a couple of things and we'll make a decision and move on."

Speaking about Earps' promotion, she added: "Mary will captain the team. She's played an immense role, which starts with her performances, she's been outstanding in the team.

"That's why she keeps winning all these awards. She's spoken up too, with this thing with Nike and we've made something really positive out of it. It's nice to see there's good attention for goalkeepers."

The stakes couldn't be higher for England on Friday, with nothing less than a win necessary to keep their hopes of Nations League progression - and qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics - alive.

The Lionesses have received a timely boost in the shape of forward Beth Mead, whose first England recall since a lengthy injury spell has coincided with a rediscovery of goal-scoring form for club Arsenal.

"We have lots of players up front in good form," Wiegman continued, when asked about Mead's possible inclusion from the start. "I'm excited she's back, it's like she's never been