Lexi Potter has done more than enough to earn a place in England's World Cup squad next summer, and may even have a claim on a starting berth. Her 60-minute debut against Greece, in a World Cup play-off, was a commanding performance for the Chelsea midfielder.
Speaking to ITV Sport after the match, Potter said it was a special moment. "It was almost a dream come true. As a young girl, it's what you dream of, playing for your country," she said. The 20-year-old admitted to nerves, and even lost her phone before kick-off, but said she enjoyed the game once on the pitch. England won 5-0 (8-1 on aggregate).
Potter grew into the match at the King Power Stadium, breaking up attacks, showing range in her passing and allowing Keira Walsh, Georgia Stanway and Lauren James to shine. She also had a goal disallowed. Head coach Sarina Wiegman praised her composure, noting that the midfielder had already impressed in camp and picked up her position well.
England still face Ukraine in the final play-off round, followed by a Nations League campaign against three teams in and around the world's top 20. With England able to take 26 players to the World Cup, Potter faces competition from Laura Blinkilde Brown, Erica Meg Parkinson, Ella Toone, Grace Clinton and Lucia Kendall for the midfield places.
Teammates have been quick to back her. Stanway described her as "composed, calm" and older than her years, while Walsh has been one of her loudest advocates. Potter's rise suggests England now have the depth in midfield they once lacked.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing