Ella Toone Embraces Competition For England's Midfield Position Ahead Of Euro 2025

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Ella Toone remains unfazed by the competition for spots in England's midfield. She scored twice as the Lionesses defeated Jamaica 7-0 in a warm-up match for Euro 2025. The game, held at King Power Stadium, saw Toone score on either side of a Lucy Bronze header, giving England a 3-0 lead by halftime.

In the second half, Georgia Stanway, Alessia Russo, Aggie Beever-Jones, and Beth Mead added to the scoreline. Jamaica struggled without Manchester City star Khadija Shaw. Toone's goals marked her first international scores since February 2024 when she netted against Italy in a 5-1 victory.

Toone previously scored crucial goals for England, including the opener in their Euro 2022 final win over Germany and another against Australia in the 2023 World Cup semi-finals. Despite her impressive record, she faces competition from Grace Clinton, Jess Park, and Lauren James for a starting spot against France in Group D.

Toone expressed her thoughts on the competition within the squad: "I think there's competition all over the squad, that's what makes our group so exciting," she told ITV. "There's so much talent; there are players that have been to tournaments and some going to their first."

She emphasised her commitment to giving her best regardless of her role: "No matter what role I have, I'll make sure I give my best for the team." She acknowledged other players capable of playing her position well and described it as healthy competition.

When asked about ending her goal drought, Toone said: "It's been a long time coming! I've waited a long time for another goal in an England shirt and then two came today, so I'm really happy with that."

Stanway's Return from Injury

Georgia Stanway also scored her first goal for England this year after recovering from ligament surgery in January. The Bayern Munich player believes she's improved through rehabilitation: "It's been a lot of work. I didn't expect to be having surgery at the end of January."

Reflecting on her recovery journey, Stanway added: "It was my first real injury in 10 years... I'm feeling good; I'm feeling fresh." She feels fitter and faster than before and is optimistic about her timing.

England will face France first in their title defence before taking on the Netherlands and Wales to complete Group D matches.