2024 is drawing to a close and England have just completed their final international fixtures of the calendar year.
It’s been a busy 12 months for the Lionesses as they secured qualification for the 2025 European Championships in Switzerland back in the summer. They have also played a handful of high profile friendlies against the likes of Germany and, more recently, the USA.
The international break kicked off with a blockbuster clash at Wembley against the U.S. women’s national team (USWNT). It was the first time Emma Hayes had returned to England in her new role, but neither side could find a breakthrough on the night as they played out a 0-0 draw.
On Tuesday night, the Lionesses faced Euro 2025 hosts Switzerland at Bramall Lane in Sheffield. Grace Clinton’s first half strike was the only goal on the night as Sarina Wiegman’s side ended the year with a hard-fought 1-0 victory.
90min have looked at the five key learnings from the final international camp of the year…
Wiegman is yet to utilise Manchester United midfielder Grace Clinton in any of the Lionesses’ big games, but every time the 21-year-old has stepped onto the pitch in an England shirt, she’s put in a Player of the Match performance. Her alertness in the box to tap home a rebounded effort from United teammate Millie Turner proved to be the difference for the hosts against Switzerland this week.
Clinton only made her senior England debut this year, but she is already showing signs she can be a crucial player for the team in the not too distant future. Along with Jess Park, the pair have the potential to be among the breakout stars of the Euros next year, provided they are afforded the opportunities by the manager.
It’s fair to say Wiegman took her final opportunity to rotate her starting lineup and experiment when England faced Switzerland this week. Against the USA, the Dutch coach understandably leaned on her experienced stars, but she then made 10 changes in their next game a few days later.
Understandably, there wasn’t the same fluidity we’ve come to expect from England. But, what was impressive in the first half against Switzerland, was their complete control in possession.
England rarely gave the ball away, and when they did, they were quick to win it back and attack once again. The…
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