July 4, 2002

England National Team roster for match against Nigeria

Angie Banks decision to step down from international soccer, coupled with Kelly Smith absence for six months because of cruciate knee ligament surgery makes life more difficult for Head Coach Hope Powell as she looks at her up front attack. She has recalled the former England captain and midfielder Tara Proctor who has been out of action with a knee injury. It is surprising that some of the several talented U-19 National Team players are not being blooded in what is essentially an Exhibition game.

Another forward, Kristy Moore has been chosen for the first time but her eligibility has not yet been approved. She has an English mother and represented her native Australia in training matches in 1997. Should the matches not have been deemed official by FIFA, then Moore would be able to play for England.

Banks cites her fear of flying and the desire to focus on her club career as the reasons for her decision.

England National Team roster

Cope, Pauline – Charlton Athletic

Hall, Leanne – Leeds United

Brown, Rachel – University of Pittsburgh, USA

Stoney, Casey – Arsenal

Pealling, Kirsty – Arsenal

McArthur, Rachel – Fulham

White, Faye – Arsenal

Phillip, Mary – Fulham

Unitt, Rachel– Fulham

Fletcher, Julie – Arsenal

Champ, Leanne – Arsenal

Burke, Karen – Doncaster Belles

Moore, Kristy – Fulham

Chapman, Katie – Fulham

Williams, Fara– Charlton Athletic

Exley, Vicky – Doncaster Belles

Britton, Samantha – Leeds United

Hunt, Carly– Doncaster Belles

Yankey, Rachel – Fulham

Proctor, Tara

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The England team will meet up on Thursday 18^th July in Norwich, ahead of the game being played at Carrow Road, Norwich City FC, on Tuesday July 23^rd with an 8.05pm kick-off. Tickets for the match, at £3 for adults, £1 concessions and £5 for a family ticket, are available from the ticket hotline on 0870 444 1902.