In Focus: Kelly creating selection dilemma as Lionesses face Belgium

Chloe Kelly starred for England in their 1-0 Women's Nations League win against Belgium last Friday.

The Manchester City attacker was a constant threat, creating numerous opportunities with her quality passing and set-piece skills.

Kelly appears to have taken her club form on to the international stage after a strong start to the new Women's Super League campaign.

Ahead of tonight's return clash with Belgium in Leuven, we assess whether Kelly can inspire the Lionesses to another victory.

Creative Chloe

Despite a controlled performance at the King Power Stadium, manager Sarina Wiegman called for more clinical finishing from her side.

She said: "We started the game really well, we were really aggressive. We wanted to dominate the game and I think that's what we did, although we had some different stages of the game.

"I had hoped that we had scored a few more goals because we created lots of chances. It becomes easier at 2-0, we are a little more comfortable."

Kelly could be one of the players who helps to get England firing in the final third.

After all, she has scored twice in just four WSL appearances this term, from an xG of only 1.4.

The Londoner also ranked first in the WSL for shot-creating actions (134) last season, as well as second for passes into the penalty area (57).

International impact

At 25, Kelly certainly has plenty of experience at international level.

She has made 36 appearances since her debut in 2018, quickly becoming influential in attack.

The former Arsenal and Everton forward also has previous for stepping up when it counts, having scored the winning goal at Wembley in last year's European Championship final triumph against Germany.

The stakes are not quite as high as England prepare to face Belgium again — but a victory is essential if the Lionesses want to top their Nations League group.

Wiegman's outfit are currently level with the Netherlands on six points, while Belgium sit second with four points after three fixtures.

Stiff competition

The next step for Kelly will be to establish herself as a regular starter for England.

Until now, she has often been used as an impact substitute to great effect, particularly at Euro 2022.

Now approaching her prime, Kelly is making a case to become an indispensable part of the Lionesses' starting XI.

But with the likes of Lauren Hemp, Ella Toone, Alessia Russo, Rachel Daly and Lauren James all competing for places in attack, Wiegman is blessed with plenty of high-quality options.

However, former England midfielder Izzy Christiansen backed Kelly to continue her progress for the Lionesses earlier this year.

Christiansen said: "She [Kelly] is in a strong position. Chloe might have to accept rotation but she just needs to keep doing what she's doing.

"It's about staying hungry for those moments and accepting your role. England have the luxury of squad depth."

After some strong early season performances in the WSL — and an eye-catching display on Friday — tonight's match in Belgium is another opportunity for Kelly to impress.