Pitch perfect

As the Lionesses prepare to defend their Euro title, Laura Woods and Seema Jaswal will be talking us through the action

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England's Lionesses kick off a roarsome defence of their UEFA Women's Euro 2022 championship win tonight, with Laura Woods and Seema Jaswal hosting the match for ITV.

Sarina Wiegman's side has drawn group D and take on France in their first fixture at Stadion Letzigrund, Zurich, Switzerland.

Captained by Leah Williamson, the 23-strong squad includes Lucy Bronze, Jess Park, Lauren James, Beth Mead, Alessia Russo, Chloe Kelly and Georgia Stanway.

However, Laura fears the team could struggle after the retirement of two team stalwarts and the withdrawal of a third player, saying, "I'm slightly worried with Millie Bright, Fran Kirby and Mary Earps all dropping out."

However, Seema is more optimistic, and reckons the new blood in the team will plug any gaps.

She says, "There is a real opportunity for some of the new players in the squad, like Grace Clinton, Jess Park and Michelle Agyemang, to make their mark and shine as the world watches them in Switzerland this summer."

LAURA WOODS

What are you most looking forward to about the Women’s Euro 2025?