Siobhan set for the Cyprus Cup

2 February 2012

Siobhan set for the Cyprus Cup

Bristol Academy goalkeeper Siobhan Chamberlain has been selected in Hope Powell's squad for the Cyprus Cup.

England will face Finland (28 February), Switzerland (1 March) and France (4 March) in this annual friendly tournament in Larnaca, matches which could allow midfielder Fara Williams (98 caps) and defenders Casey Stoney, who has captained England throughout their Euro 2013 qualifying campaign, and Rachel Unitt (both 97) to reach that special triple-figure landmark.

“They all broke into the senior squad at pretty much the same time and it has been nice seeing them mature and grow as players,” said Powell, of the expectant trio. “If you look at Casey, she didn’t kick a ball in the 2005 Euros but she worked really, really hard and she is now the captain.

“I have to applaud all three, though,” she continued. “They’ve all got different qualities, they’ve all done exceptionally well to get this far and they are all still in a position to have an impact on games.

“Getting to 100 caps is no mean feat in any sport, so credit to them for putting themselves in that position."

While there is still no place for regular captain Faye White, who continues her recovery following knee surgery, Anita Asante returns to the squad for the first time since the World Cup, as does Sue Smith, who last appeared for England at last season’s Cyprus Cup. There is no place for Rachel Yankey, however, due to a hamstring complaint.

This year’s Cyprus Cup comprises three groups of four teams, with England drawn in Group A.

“The priority isn’t really a focus on exactly who we are playing, although all three of our group games will undoubtedly be tough, particularly France,” said Powell. “This tournament is more about giving me an opportunity to look at the players and see how they cope in a tournament environment.

“After [a training camp in] La Manga [in January] the competition for places is quite fierce now. We’ve got players coming back from injury, some other players are now injured which gives other players an opportunity, so it’s a really good chance to assess players over a good period of time to see how they do, particularly with the Euro qualifiers coming up again. The attitude and work ethic in La Manga was very, very good and hopefully we can build on that in Cyprus.

“Everybody will play some part, all being well.”

Goalkeepers

Karen Bardsley - Linköping

Rachel Brown - Everton

Siobhan Chamberlain - Bristol Academy

Carly Telford - Chelsea

Defenders

Sophie Bradley - Lincoln Ladies

Alex Scott - Unattached

Dunia Susi - Birmingham City

Casey Stoney - Lincoln Ladies

Rachel Unitt - Everton