Lionesses Gear Up for Brazil: Who's In, Who's Scrapping?

England's Lionesses have hit the ground running in 2027 Women's World Cup qualifying, smashing Ukraine 6-1 midweek before welcoming Iceland this weekend. As Sarina Wiegman's European champs eye another deep run – fresh off their 2023 runners-up spot – the squad puzzle is taking shape. But with injuries biting and fresh faces popping up, who's got a golden ticket to Brazil? Let's break it down like we're dissecting the half-time tactics over a pint.

Dead Certs: Pencil 'Em In Now

Some players are so nailed-on, you'd bet your season ticket on it. Captain Leah Williamson leads the pack, the defensive rock Wiegman can't do without. Hannah Hampton is the undisputed No.1 keeper, while Lucy Bronze, Keira Walsh, Georgia Stanway and Alessia Russo have been starters in every big dance under the gaffer.

Don't sleep on Lauren Hemp and Lauren James either. Yeah, injuries have niggled them this term, but these are Wiegman's go-to wing wizards – pure class when fit. If lightning strikes and any of these eight miss out? it'd be the shock of the tournament. Total locks: 8.

The Reliable Lieutenants: Big Game Bangers

Next tier down are the leaders who might rotate but always deliver. The back three of Jess Carter, Esme Morgan and Alex Greenwood offer Wiegman defensive flexibility – left, right or centre, they've got it covered. They're in every squad chat, no question.

Up top, Ella Toone edges the No.10 battles, while Beth Mead and Chloe Kelly are super-subs extraordinaire, netting those clutch goals in past triumphs. Shock if these six aren't boarding the plane? Massive. Squad tally now: 14.

On the Up: Form Horses Galloping In

Certainty dips here, but these lot are trending like a viral highlight reel. Aggie Beever-Jones has been Russo's trusty deputy up front, holding firm despite Michelle Agyemang's emergence (now sidelined). She's back as the main backup, scoring consistently.

Jess Park is tearing it up in Europe this season – a shoe-in starter now. Maya Le Tissier's shifted to centre-back and loving it, Lucia Kendall starred in post-Euro friendlies, and Anna Moorhouse is the steady keeper option behind Hampton, with proper club minutes.

Keep this form? These five are Brazil-bound as squad depth or spark plugs. Running total: 19 players looking good.

The Final Dash: Spots Up for Grabs

Squad size? Still a mystery – think 26 like the men's game, but women's rules might differ. That leaves room for bolters, but long-term injuries to stars like Agyemang open doors. Wiegman's four-plus years in charge mean she loves stability, yet she's savvy with youth.

Watch for club form in the coming months; qualifying games will be auditions. Iceland this weekend? Perfect chance for fringe players to shine. The Lionesses' core is rock-solid, but the bench could make or break another World Cup charge.

As reported by the crew at Goal.com, England's pool is deep and dripping talent. With Wiegman's winning formula, Brazil 2027 feels like destiny – just don't jinx it by mentioning penalties.

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