The Lionesses’ October friendlies against Germany and South Africa have taken an unexpected turn with Chelsea star Lauren James withdrawing due to a calf injury. Six6s brings you an exclusive tactical breakdown of how Sarina Wiegman’s squad adapts to this last-minute change.
Injury Blow: James’ Absence Reshapes England’s Attack
The 22-year-old winger’s absence creates a significant void in England’s creative department. James had been instrumental in Chelsea’s UWCL campaign this season, contributing 4 goals and 3 assists in her last 7 appearances across all competitions.
Wiegman has opted not to call up a direct replacement, suggesting either:
- A shift in formation (potential 3-5-2 deployment)
- Increased responsibility for Chelsea teammate Aggie Beever-Jones
- Possible positional change for Lauren Hemp
Defensive Reinforcements Arrive
Aston Villa’s Lucy Parker earns her recall after impressive performances in the WSL, where she’s won 68% of her defensive duels this season. Arsenal’s Lotte Wubben-Moy also returns, adding depth to the center-back position.
Six6s tactical insight:
“Parker’s inclusion suggests Wiegman may experiment with a back-three against Germany’s physical forwards,” notes our in-house analyst Mark Thompson. “Her 1.78m frame could be crucial in set-piece situations.”
Goalkeeping Controversy Continues
The selection of Orlando Pride’s Anna Moorhouse over Manchester City’s Khiara Keating raises eyebrows. Moorhouse’s NWSL form (8 clean sheets in 22 appearances) justifies her inclusion, but questions remain about long-term succession planning.
Key stats:
- Mary Earps: 73% save percentage (PSG)
- Hannah Hampton: 81% distribution accuracy (Chelsea)
- Moorhouse: 1.12 goals conceded per game (Orlando)
Wiegman faces tough decisions as England prepares for upcoming challenges
Chloe Kelly’s Redemption Arc
Despite scoring just once in her last 15 WSL appearances, Kelly retains Wiegman’s trust. Our Six6s sources reveal the winger has been exceptional in training, with metrics showing:
- 4.3 successful dribbles per 90 (team-high)
- 2.5 key passes per game
- 83% pressing success rate
“Chloe brings intangible qualities,” Wiegman stated. “Her big-game mentality won us the Euro 2022 final.”
Tactical Preview: Germany & South Africa Tests
Germany (October 27 @ Wembley)
- Physicality: Germany averages 1.8m in height across starting XI
- Form: Unbeaten in last 8 matches
- Key threat: Lea Schüller (9 goals in 10 games)
South Africa (October 29 @ Coventry)
- Speed: Fastest attack England will face this year
- X-factor: Thembi Kgatlana’s 10.9s 100m pace
- Recent result: Drew 1-1 with Netherlands
Full Squad Analysis
Goalkeepers:
- Mary Earps (PSG) – Commanding presence
- Hannah Hampton (Chelsea) – Distribution specialist
- Anna Moorhouse (Orlando) – Shot-stopping form
Defenders:
- Lucy Bronze – Overlapping threat
- Millie Bright – Aerial dominance (85% won)
- Leah Williamson – Build-up playmaker
Midfield:
- Keira Walsh – 92% pass accuracy
- Georgia Stanway – 3.5 tackles/game
- Grace Clinton – Rising star
Forwards:
- Alessia Russo – Target woman
- Beth Mead – Cutting inside
- Jess Naz – Direct runner
Six6s Prediction: How England Will Line Up
Our projected XI against Germany (3-4-3):
Earps
Bright - Williamson - Greenwood
Bronze - Walsh - Stanway - Carter
Kelly - Russo - HempKey battles:
- Walsh vs. Oberdorf (midfield duel)
- Bright vs. Schüller (aerial contest)
- Hemp vs. Gwinn (speed matchup)
Conclusion: England’s Evolving Identity Under Wiegman
Lauren James‘ absence forces tactical innovation as England prepares for two contrasting tests. With Six6s, you’ve seen how Wiegman balances:
- Established stars (Earps, Bronze)
- In-form players (Moorhouse, Parker)
- Project talents (Beever-Jones, Naz)
Share your thoughts below: How should England replace James’ creativity? Which youngster deserves more minutes? Join the conversation with Six6s – your home for cutting-edge football analysis.
