Four changes that England manager Sarina Wiegman should make against the Netherlands | OneFootball

England boss Sarina Wiegman has hinted at making changes to her squad for the clash against the Netherlands. (Natalie Mincher/SPP)

Sarina Wiegman has hinted at changes for the Lionesses’ Euro 2025 clash against the Netherlands, and here we take a look at how she could switch up the England squad for their Group D match on Wednesday night.

The defending European champions will be fighting for survival when they face Euro 2017 winners the Netherlands at Stadion Letzigrund in Zurich at 5pm (BST).

This comes after the Lionesses suffered a 2-1 defeat to France in their opening group stage game.

Should the Netherlands beat England and France defeat Wales, the Lionesses will exit the tournament. A draw would make it almost impossible for Wiegman’s side to qualify in their final group stage game, though a victory would give them a strong chance of qualification.

What did Sarina Wiegman say ahead of England’s game against the Netherlands?

There have been calls for changes against the Netherlands after England put on a lethargic performance against France in their Group D opener.

Wiegman says she won’t be afraid to switch things up in pursuit of a crucial three points.

She said: “In our team, we have different types of players who play in the same position. So, if you want to change something, change your shape and style to impact the game, we can do that,”

“We knew this was going to be a hard group. What we are focusing on is our game plan and executing that, doing your task, and having conversations with players together, and talking together, and that is what we want to do in the game too.”

Below, we take a look at four changes that Wiegman should make.

What changes could Sarina Wiegman make against the Netherlands?

Move Lauren James out wide

Despite the exceptional ability that Lauren James possesses, Sarina Wiegman has not managed to nail down what her best position is.

In the No.10 role against France, James faded badly, and she left midfielders Georgia Stanway and Keira Walsh exposed.

Playing her on the right where she can link up with Chelsea teammate Lucy Bronze seems the best fit.

This would mean that Euro 2022 top scorer Beth Mead drops to the bench. The Arsenal star is no longer a guaranteed starter in Wiegman’s side and perhaps should be rested here.

Bring in Ella Toone as the No.10

With Lauren James moving onto the right flank, Ella Toone can step in as the No.10.

It was a surprise that Toone was dropped for England’s Euro 2025 opener against France.

The Lionesses’ midfield seemed to have better stability when Toone replaced James on the hour mark against France.

Toone’s best work is in attack but she can also do a job defensively, which will be crucial in a must-win match against the Netherlands.

Start Niamh Charles over Jess Carter

Niamh Charles was selected over Jess Carter in several matches ahead of Women’s Euro 2025.

Carter got the start against France and was done too easily on occasion by France’s attackers.

With that being the case, it could be worth giving Charles the start against the Netherlands to see how she fares.

Grace Clinton in for Georgia Stanway

Georgia Stanway and Keira Walsh weren’t helped in the game against France as they looked exposed and outnumbered.

The Bayern Munich midfielder is not long off the back of an injury and it could be worth giving her a rest.

Grace Clinton enjoyed an exceptional domestic season and would deserve a chance to show what she can offer in this England midfield.

England vs Netherlands match odds

According to the UK’s top betting websites, the Lionesses are favourites to beat the Netherlands on Wednesday evening.

England are priced at 4/5 to pick up the three points compared to 11/4 for the Netherlands. A draw is priced at 21/10.

A victory would take Group D to the final day. England face Wales in their final group stage game. This is more favourable than for the Netherlands who play France.