Lexi Potter's Chelsea form sparks England call-up talk ahead of squad announcement
Chelsea midfielder Lexi Potter has impressed in the Women's Super League, prompting discussion about a first senior England call-up as Sarina Wiegman prepares to name her squad.
Sarina Wiegman is set to announce her latest England squad on Tuesday, with Chelsea midfielder Lexi Potter attracting attention after a strong start to the Women's Super League season. The 20-year-old has started three of Chelsea's four league matches alongside England's Keira Walsh and has been widely praised for her performances.
Potter, a Chelsea academy graduate, broke through last season after a two-year loan at Crystal Palace. She scored the winner on her first WSL start against Brighton in March and has now made 20 appearances. This season, she has helped Chelsea to a 1-0 win over Arsenal and a 2-0 victory over Birmingham City, contributing to three successive league clean sheets. According to the article, she has maintained a 93% passing accuracy in the WSL, ranks fourth among her team-mates for tackles and interceptions, and has the third-best passing success rate at Chelsea.
Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor expressed satisfaction with Potter's progress, noting her consistency at a young age. Bompastor said Potter proved she can sustain high-level performances in big matches and that Walsh benefits from Potter's presence, allowing Walsh more freedom to push forward. Former England striker Ellen White described Potter as "a special player" on the Women's Football Weekly podcast, highlighting her composure under pressure and physicality. Chelsea defender Lucy Bronze told BBC Radio 5 Live that Potter has been "absolutely fantastic" and could develop into a player similar to Walsh.
With Walsh, 29, a long-standing key figure for England, Potter's emergence has led to discussion about whether she is the long-term successor in the number six role. White suggested England have been looking for someone to fill that position and that Potter's inclusion in the senior squad would be valuable for her development. Potter has yet to be on the pitch for Chelsea when they have conceded a goal this season, underscoring her defensive contribution.
England are aiming to secure qualification for next year's Women's World Cup in Brazil through a double-header against Greece in October. While pundits and team-mates have voiced support for Potter's potential call-up, Wiegman has not yet made her decision. If selected, Potter would join the senior squad for the first time.
Supporters have taken to social media to express excitement about Potter's rise. Many fans believe she is ready for international football, while others urge caution, noting that she is still developing and should be given time. Some supporters draw parallels with Walsh's early career, but opinions vary on whether Potter should be fast-tracked into the England setup or continue her development at club level.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
