Keira Walsh credits two players for England’s turnaround at Women’s Euro 2025 | OneFootball

Keira Walsh has praised two England players for their turnaround at Women’s Euro 2025. (Photo by Morgan Harlow/Getty Images)

Keira Walsh credits Ella Toone and Lauren James for reigniting the Lionesses’ campaign at Women’s Euro 2025.

After England’s tough loss to France in their opening game, coach Sarina Wiegman brought Ella Toone into the starting lineup.

Toone played as the No.10 while Lauren James was moved out wide – relegating Beth Mead to the bench.

Walsh explains why Toone and James have been key to England’s Euro 2025 turnaround

Keiraa Walsh believes England’s improved performances at Euro 2025 have come from a mix of renewed confidence and standout contributions from key players like Ella Toone and Lauren James.

“Massive credit to Ella Toone, she’s come in and done an incredible job,” Walsh said.

While many highlight Toone’s attacking threat, Walsh was quick to spotlight her defensive importance.

“The defensive work she does for me and Georgia is incredible. She covers a lot of spaces that we can’t. I think that’s probably been the main thing that’s stopped other teams from playing.”

Walsh also praised the decision to move to James over to the wing and play with Toone.

“With Lauren James on the wing, we’ve managed to get them both on the pitch at the same time and they are two world-class players,” she added.

How did the Lionesses turn things around?

England’s group stage campaign did not begin as planned, but back-to-back victories brought them back to life.

Reflecting on the journey so far, Walsh admitted, “Obviously it was a tough start in the group. So I think to win the final two games and the way we did it was really positive.”

She acknowledged that England may have needed that early jolt to get going. “Maybe the pressure did kick us into gear a little bit,” she said.

“France are a top team, it was more about finding our confidence and enjoying it, rather than needing a bit of a shock. In that game we lacked confidence and bravery.

“It was a slow start I think but we’ve definitely built on that. I think the intensity in the last two games, the way we’ve attacked, the way we’ve tried to win the ball back really quick. I think it’s been really good, so we’re happy with where we are right now.”

She explained how a clearer message from head coach Sarina Wiegman helped refocus the team. “That was the main message from the first game. Sarina just wanted us to be confident and enjoy it, and obviously we play better football when we do that.”

What’s next for England?

Looking ahead, Walsh is aware of the challenge England face in the quarter-finals. Sweden are unbeaten in the tournament and most recently defeated Germany with an eye-catching 4-1 win.

“They’ve had an incredible group as well. They had a really strong game against Germany,” Walsh said. “It’s going to be really tough opposition but we’re just going to focus on what we’re doing, keep being confident playing good football.”

Despite the tough path ahead, there is a clear sense of belief within the squad. With momentum building and key players in form, England are determined to keep their tournament hopes alive.

Victory would move them one step closer to reclaiming the European title they won in 2022, and continue their bid to become back-to-back champions.

According to the UK’s top football betting sites, England are favourites to beat Sweden at odds of 1/1 in 90 minutes. Sweden are priced at 23/10 while a draw over 90 minutes is 15/8.