In Focus: Alex's versatility a great asset for England

Alex Greenwood could be a key figure for England in Australia and New Zealand. 

The 29-year-old has been consistently excellent at centre-back for Manchester City but has largely played at left-back at international level. 

Her versatility could be crucial for the Lionesses as they hunt their first World Cup title. 

Ahead of England's opening game against Haiti tomorrow, we analyse the value Greenwood brings to the side.

Versatile

Greenwood was deployed at left-back in the Lionesses' most recent friendly — a 0-0 draw against Portugal. 

Jess Carter, Esme Morgan, and Millie Bright all appear to be ahead of Greenwood in the centre-back pecking order, with the 75-cap ace primarily operating out wide as a result. 

The City star has explained that she has no problem being used in either position, having actually spent more of her career as a full-back despite her recent switch at club level. 

She said: "I'm always happy to play for England in either position. Whatever my role is for the team, I'll do it the best I can. I think I've shown that previously.

"But yes, whether it's left-back or centre-back, I know both roles really well. I've played both, obviously more so centre-back as of late, but throughout the majority of my career I've been a left-back."

Her versatility also provides manager Sarina Wiegman with an additional option at centre-back in case of injury or suspension — a potentially vital ability with Leah Williamson missing the tournament.

Ball-playing defender

Greenwood's main quality is her ability to play out from the back. 

In the WSL last season, she attempted 88.3 passes per 90 — among the highest rate in the division. 

Her confidence on the ball should ensure that she slots seamlessly into Wiegman's possession-based system, helping England control games.

Enjoying the weight of expectation

Greenwood has opened up about the mentality of the England camp heading into Australia and New Zealand, admitting that expectations are high following their triumph at the European Championships last year. 

She said: "The expectation never goes away, whether you're successful or not, but that's an expectation that we enjoy. 

"Mentally, we're in a very positive place, and that's from being successful. 

"We've got some players who experienced [winning the European Championships] last summer, some players who didn't and [have] come in and want a taste of what it feels like."

Opening game

England begin their World Cup campaign playing against Haiti, who are making their World Cup debut. 

Given the Lionesses’ status as favourites, Greenwood’s skills with the ball are more likely to be called upon than her defensive nous as the European champions look to kick their tournament off with a victory. 

If Wiegman's side do reach the latter stages of the tournament — as they are expected to — she can provide part of the perfect platform for England in their pursuit of World Cup glory.