 we always try to use qualities of the squad," she said. "Or as optimally as possible. We have played with a three at the back and then did things a little differently. "Everyone really believed in the formation straight away and you could see that on the pitch. "We got a higher press. The team showed we are really adaptable and we knew we could press the centre backs of China. This team have showed they are adaptable before and that we can change shape very easily. Show your support for The Lionesses throughout the FIFA Women's World Cup with the latest England home shirt. Mixing the classic with the contemporary, this shirt is being worn by the team as they bid to add a World Cup to their incredible European Championship triumph in 2022. £79.95 "We knew we could press the centre-backs of China, bu){kind=link}
Sarina Wiegman’s England thrashed China as Lauren James became the Lionesses’ tormentor in chief, scoring twice and setting up three more in a 6-1 win that sealed top spot in Group D
Sarina Wiegman denied her switch of formation to a back three was down to Keira Walsh’s absence.
England thrashed China 6-1 to secure a place in the last 16 of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, with Lauren James again grabbing the spotlight, with two superb strikes and three assists. But the Lionesses had to do so without Walsh who picked up a knee injury in the win over Denmark.
For the first time as England manager in a major tournament, Wiegman decided to completely change England’s tactical shape, moving to a 3-4-1-2. This saw James deployed as a No.10, Lucy Bronze and Rachel Daly at wing-back with Katie Zelem in midfield instead of Laura Coombs.
The Lionesses responded with an emphatic win that ensures that top Group D and will meet Nigeria in the last 16 on Monday. But Wiegman insisted after the win that her side would always look at alternative systems depending on the game and that Walsh was not the solo factor in the change.