England U-19s: Four standout young Lionesses to keep an eye on | OneFootball

England U-19s recently progressed to the next stage of qualification for the 2025 UEFA U-19 European Championships. Two wins and a narrow loss to Poland meant that they finished third in Group A4 on goal difference.This follows on from their triumph in the Algarve Cup, after victories over the Netherlands and Norway back in October. These major tournaments will give the U-19s valuable experience against tough opposition, which bodes well for their future career prospects.

We’ve listed four key England U-19 stars for you to keep an eye on moving forwards. Let’s take a closer look at these impressive young Lionesses.

Michelle Agyemang (Brighton & Hove Albion, on loan from Arsenal)

Michelle Agyemang is a generational talent who has been making huge strides for both club and country. The 18-year-old’s standout performances earned her a maiden England U-23s call up for the October international window. Agyemang made an instant impression, scoring directly from a free-kick to secure a 1-0 victory against Portugal.Despite returning to the U-19s for this international window, Agyemang has certainly proved her worth in the under-23s squad.

The youngster came through Arsenal’s academy and has trained with the senior squad for several seasons. Agyemang will gain crucial WSL experience whilst on loan at Brighton this season,enabling her to showcase her talent in England’s top flight.She scored her first goal for the club in a 4-2 victory against Aston Villa.Agyemang is a ruthless striker who looks set to be a star of the future for both club and country.

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Lexi Potter (Crystal Palace, on loan from Chelsea)

Lexi Potter is a regular starter for England U-19s, demonstrating her importance to the team’s success. She has previous experience as captain at U-17 level, allowing her to develop her leadership qualities at international tournaments.Potter joined Chelsea at the age of eight and rapidly rose through the ranks of their academy. She went on to become the youngest female player in England to sign a professional contract. She spent last season on loan at Crystal Palace and played a key role in their promotion to the WSL. Before going out on loan to Palace for a second stint, Potter signed a new four-year contract with Chelsea. This suggests Potter could be integrated into the first team next season if she impresses while out on loan.

Potter’s ability to dictate play and pick out passes is beyond her years. This has helped her to quickly adapt to the demands of playing in the WSL. She is certainly one to watch as the Palace hope to make their mark on the English top flight.

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Lily Murphy (Manchester City)

Lily Murphy joined Manchester City’s academy in 2022 and has now become a part of their senior squad. The youngster has since made her Champions League and WSL debuts for the Citizens. She also recently committed her future to the club, signing her first professional contract with the Sky Blues.Murphy is able to play across the attacking line, making her a versatile option for Man City. She has made numerous appearances from the bench and also featured for City in pre-season.

She received her first call-up to the England U-19s in February 2024 and has put in many impressive performances. Murphy is a skilful winger who utilises her immense pace to dodge around opposition defenders with ease.

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Issy Hobson (Everton)

The 17-year-old defender became the WSL’s youngest ever goalscorer last season, netting the equaliser in a 1-1 draw against Arsenal. She has since been entrusted by Everton manager Brian Sørensen to step up in important games.Hobson is a versatile player with the ability to excel in a variety of defensive positions. She is a physical defender who is unafraid to put in strong tackles and utilise her strength to maintain possession.She has represented England at both U-17 and U-19 levels, enabling her to build up valuable experience at international level. Hobson will be hoping to establish herself in the starting 11 for England and Everton this season.https://x.com/lionesses/status/1865051802410041437?s=61

What’s next for England U-19s?

The young Lionesses will go up against Ukraine, Belgium and Austria in the next round of qualifying games. England will host these fixtures between April 2nd and 8th. If England U-19s can finish as group winners, they will qualify for the final tournament.

This team contains a number of incredible young talents, making them an exciting watch as they look to follow in the footsteps of the 2022 Euro-winning senior Lionesses.

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