Scotland Women’s National Team head coach Shelley Kerr has named a settled squad for the upcoming friendly match against the USA in Paisley.
Injuries to Kim Little and Sophie Howard mean that Kerr makes two changes to the squad that made history by qualifying for the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup back in September.
Glasgow City midfielder Hayler Lauder replaces Little in the playing group after enjoying a rich vein of form in recent months, whilst Hibernian’s Joelle Murray takes the place of Howard.
The rest of the squad is unchanged from the historic victory in Shkoder, with Jane Ross – scorer of the goal that will see Scotland take their place amongst the world’s elite next summer – once again included amongst Kerr’s attacking options.
November’s fixture will represent the perfect homecoming opportunity for the SWNT, with Scotland supporters able to welcome their side back to Paisley for the first time since their historic qualification.
A number of Kerr’s squad have been in scintillating form since their last international outing, with Caroline Weir in particular enjoying a sensational start to the FAWSL season with Manchester City alongside Scotland team-mates Claire Emslie and Jen Beattie.
City find themselves behind only Arsenal at the top of the standings, with the London side able to call upon SWNT pair Lisa Evans and Emma Mitchell.
Further afield, Lana Clelland will link up with the squad in buoyant mood following her cup-winning contribution for Fiorentina, with the striker having set up the decisive goal in the Italian Super Cup final against Juventus.
Ten of the squad were also present for the last meeting between Scotland and the USA, a 3-1 defeat for the SWNT in Nashville back in 2013.
Scotland v USA
The Simple Digital Arena, Paisley
Tuesday, 13 November 2018, kick-off 7.15pm
Speaking of her selection, Kerr said: “Our players are excited for what should be a tremendous occasion in Paisley next month, and we’re really looking forward to having them back in camp.
“Whilst we’re disappointed for Kim and Sophie that injury has ruled them out of the match, to have players of the quality of Hayley and Joelle to bring in is a real indication of the strength in depth our squad possesses.
“We’re looking forward to getting out and testing ourselves against the world champions – our road to France starts now, and we’re delighted to be back in front of our supporters.”
Scotland Squad
Goalkeepers – Lee Alexander (Glasgow City), Jenna Fife (Hibernian), Shannon Lynn (Vittsjo GIK)
Defenders – Chloe Arthur (Birmingham City), Jenny Beattie (Manchester City), Frankie Brown (Bristol City), Rachel Corsie (Canberra United*), Joelle Murray (Hibernian), Emma Mitchell (Arsenal), Kirsty Smith (Manchester United)
Midfielders – Lizzie Arnot (Manchester United), Leanne Crichton (Glasgow City), Hayley Lauder (Glasgow City), Jo Love (Glasgow City), Christie Murray (Liverpool), Caroline Weir (Manchester City)
Forwards – Fiona Brown (FC Rosengård), Lana Clelland (ACF Fiorentina), Erin Cuthbert (Chelsea), Claire Emslie (Manchester City), Lisa Evans (Arsenal), Zoe Ness (Durham United), Jane Ross (West Ham United)
*On loan from Utah Royals
