Scott revels in squad strength
Monday, 24 October, 2011
Midfielder says England's players can compete with the best.
The England Women’s team travelled to Holland on Sunday ahead of the crucial UEFA Euro 2013 qualifier in Zwolle, and preparations are now well underway after they completed a double training session on Monday.
After earning four points from their opening two qualifiers, Hope Powell’s side are now looking for a positive result against the Dutch to put themselves in a favourable position to top Group 6.
They will have their qualifying credential severely tested against an improving Holland side who have won their first two qualifiers, against Serbia and Croatia, scoring a total of nine goals without reply.
However, midfielder Jill Scott believes England - sixth in the FIFA rankings - have a strong enough group of players to compete against anyone.
"We always say if we get it right and play to our potential then we can play well against any team in the world,” said the recently-crowned International Player of the Year.
"The squad is strong in terms of experienced players and it's about getting the right mix.
“We beat Japan 2-0 in the World Cup and they went on to win the competition. Obviously teams are getting better around us, but I think if we can concentrate on ourselves then we shouldn't have a problem.
"Overall I think we have got a great squad of players."
Rachel Brown did not meet up with the squad and has been forced to withdraw through injury.
England’s next home qualifier is against Serbia on Wednesday 23 November at Doncaster Rovers’ Keepmoat Stadium. Tickets are on sale now, priced £5 for adults and £2.50 for concessions, with U7s going free when accompanied by an adult.
Click here to buy online or call the ticket hotline on 01302 762 576.
Squad in full
Goalkeepers
Karen Bardsley (Linköpings – on loan from Sky Blue), Rachel Brown* (Everton), Siobhan Chamberlain (Bristol Academy)
Defenders
Sophie Bradley (Nottingham Forest - on loan from Lincoln), Alex Scott (Boston Breakers), Casey Stoney (Lincoln), Dunia Susi (Birmingham City), Rachel Unitt (Everton), Fern Whelan (Everton)
Midfielders
Laura Bassett (Birmingham City), Dan Buet (Chelsea), Steph Houghton (Arsenal), Jade Moore (Birmingham City), Jill Scott (Everton), Fara Williams (Everton)
Forwards
Eniola Aluko (Sky Blue), Karen Carney (Birmingham City), Jess Clarke (Lincoln), Natasha Dowie (Everton), Ellen White (Arsenal) Rachel Williams (Birmingham City), Rachel Yankey (Arsenal)
* withdrew from the squad through injury