From the defence to Wiegman’s record – England’s World Cup campaign so far | Suzanne Wrack

The move to a back three has worked well but there is a lack of creativity, and how will they deal with the Australia fans?

There were concerns about England’s backline before the start of the World Cup, with the Euro 2022 captain Leah Williamson out injured and Millie Bright not having played a competitive game since March because of a knee injury. Conversely, England’s defensive stability has been a highlight of their campaign. Sarina Wiegman’s side have conceded just twice in normal time and the decision to switch to a back three, utilising the forward-thinking Lucy Bronze and Rachel Daly as wing-backs, has proved a master stroke. The three centre-backs – Jess Carter, Millie Bright and Alex Greenwood – have all been superb with Carter probably England’s best one v one defender during the tournament and Bright a towering rock with the capacity to push forward through the middle. However, Greenwood’s performances warrant extra praise. The left-footed former full-back has arguable been England’s best player. She has completed more successful passes and more attacking passes than any other player in the tournament. What a difference from a year ago when she was forced on to the bench during the Euros as the partnership between Williamson and Bright blossomed.