Women of England: “We rely on this DNA” – the next generation of Lionesses

As the senior team prepares to end a year in which they lifted the Euro 2025 title, Emma Coates’ Under-23s will be hoping to impress Wegman and put themselves in contention for a call-up.

For friendlies against China and Ghana this month, Wegman brought in young West Ham defender Anouk Denton and London City Lions striker Freya Godfrey.

They are the latest in a long list of players to make the leap, following Arsenal teenager Katie Reid and Aston Villa midfielder Lucia Kendall in October.

Seven players have received the Wegman nod this year, including Brighton’s Maisie Simmonds, who started in midfield for the Under-23s against Norway.

“It’s an important part of the lionesses’ DNA. We’re reliant on that DNA coming through,” Lottie Wobin Moy, England’s two-time European champion, told BBC Sport.

“We need young players who are competitive and not only push me, but the older players as well. That’s really positive.”

“When you have that competition, it allows for a lot of growth. We’ve seen that in the last four or five years – not just in terms of titles.”

Coates and her coaching staff work closely with Wegman, holding regular meetings and conversations about player development.

Youth teams, including the England Under-17s and Under-19s, try to emulate the first team with their preparation procedures, match tactics and team culture.

Wegman also watched an under-23s training session at St George’s Park this week.

Those who have moved on to the first team have enjoyed huge success as a result, including Agyemang, who was one of the stars of Euro 2025.

One of the new arrivals, Aston Villa midfielder Kendall, won the man of the match award after impressing in England’s 3-0 win over Australia last month.

“I remember coming in full of confidence and wanting to prove myself,” England striker Lauren Hemp said when asked what advice she would give her. “That might be the best situation to be in as there are no expectations.”

“I’m still trying to instill it now. I want to enjoy every moment I get. It’s not usual to play in front of 80,000 people at Wembley Stadium.

“These are great occasions for girls coming up.”