Stepping into the role on an interim basis to replace Gemma Grainger, Jon Grey has named his first Cymru squad ahead of a friendly match against the Republic of Ireland later this month.
Unlike the Girls in Green, who face Italy in Firenze four days before the clash at Tallaght Stadium, Cymru will only play one match throughout the upcoming international window. Grey has named a plethora of uncapped talents in his 26-player squad, while a number of U17 stars will link up with the senior squad throughout the camp.
Cardiff City’s Tianna Teisar, Charlton Athletic’s Tegan McGowan, London City Lionesses’ Lois Joel are named in Cymru’s senior squad for the first time. Teisar, in addition to Manchester United duo Olivia Francis and Mayzee Davies, will join the camp after completing a double-header against Scotland with the U19s.
Embed from Getty ImagesAnnouncing his squad for the first time, Grey spoke with optimism of the younger players within the squad. On Lois Joel, he explained the process of her decision to play for Cymru as opposed to England, having previously represented the Young Lionesses.
‘She’s come across from England where she played for the age group teams. She came here for a camp in September, just to see if she liked the environment here and if she fitted in. She did really well in that camp, and we’re delighted that she’s chosen to come with us.’
With Olivia Francis called up for the first time, Grey was keen to emphasise that her development highlights the quality that can be found within the Adran Leagues. The forward previously plied her trade with Pontypridd United, before putting pen to paper on a deal with Manchester United.
‘If you’re good enough, whatever level you’re playing at, you’ll find your way in this game,’ he explained.
‘There are players who are good enough in the Adran Leagues to make those steps to the first team, and once they get an opportunity, it’s about showcasing themselves week in and week out and working their way up. There’s definitely talented players out there across the leagues.’
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The full Cymru squad features three goalkeepers, with Bristol City’s Olivia Clark, Watford’s Safia Middleton-Patel and Cardiff City’s Laura O’Sullivan all available to feature between the sticks.
Defensive options include Real Betis’ Rhiannon Roberts, Leicester City’s Josie Green, Manchester United’s Hayley Ladd and Gemma Evans, Reading’s Charlie Estcourt, Bristol City’s Ella Powell and Seattle Reign’s Lily Woodham.
There are plenty of options for Jon Grey to utilise in the heart of midfield, with Chelsea’s Sophie Ingle, Seattle Reign’s Angharad James and Jess Fishlock, Southampton’s Alice Griffiths, London City Lionesses’ Lois Joel, Bristol City’s Ffion Morgan and Carrie Jones, Rangers’ Rachel Rowe and Liverpool’s Ceri Holland.
Charlton’s Kayleigh Barton and Tegan McGowan, Manchester United’s Olivia Francis and Mayzee Davies, Crystal Palace’s Elise Hughes, Sunderland’s Mary McAteer and Cardiff City’s Tianna Teisar form Grey’s attacking options.
