Keating and Maya Le Tissier’s options: England’s talking points after defeat to Brazil

The main point of discussion before the match was which position Manchester United captain Maya Le Tissier should play.

Wegman has made clear that she sees her as a right-back in the current England squad, although Le Tissier plays her weekly football at centre-back for United.

The talented 23-year-old has started 72 consecutive games at centre-back in the Women’s Super League, and in her 104 appearances for United, she has played just once at right-back.

Manchester United were keen to highlight this in a social media post last week, sparking debate among supporters and putting Wegman’s decision into question.

But against Brazil, Le Tissier started at full-back and moved to midfield with less than 40 minutes left in the match.

“I play week after week as a centre-back, so I feel more comfortable as a centre-back,” she said afterwards.

“I have to think a little more about the right-back position, but to be honest, I’m happy to play and get on the pitch. It was frustrating for me.”

Wegman highlighted Le Tissier’s qualities, citing her speed and energy as valuable assets for the attacking full-back role she desires.

The Dutchwoman stressed that she knows what Le Tissier can do in the heart of defense, but now is the right time to try new things.

With Lucy Bronze guarding the position long-term, are there enough backup options available or has Le Tissier become a victim of the squad’s lack of depth?

“I think we have players but Lucy Bronze is still building her [fitness] “And Niamh Charles is still building who can play there,” Wegman said.

“That’s also what you need from the game. Of course I still think that Maya can play at right-back and I know she can play at centre-back as well.

“It’s about what the game asks for. This is the specific period to try. There are two years left [until the World Cup] So I hope we have many players who will compete for this position.”

One potential replacement is Tottenham’s young full-back Ella Morris, who received a senior call-up for Euro 2025 but suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury while training with England.

But Le Tissier’s performances at right-back and centre-back in Saturday’s defeat will please Wegman as she confirms she is at home in an England shirt.