When we talk about young players in the women’s game, it’s important to do so with care. These athletes are still developing — physically, technically, and mentally — and they deserve the time and space to grow without extra pressure or unrealistic expectations.
But it’s also fair to say that some young talents stand out early. They flash potential that’s hard to ignore. So today, we’re highlighting three exciting young English players who we believe could become future senior Lionesses — if they’re given the right environment, support, and time to develop.
Lexi Potter – The Midfield General in the Making
We had to start with Lexi. At just 18 years old, she already plays with the maturity and presence of someone far older. A natural box-to-box midfielder, Lexi is known for her intelligent movement, relentless work rate, and ability to dictate the tempo of a game.
Her link-up play between defence and attack is exceptional, and she reads the game with rare clarity. Her anticipation and ball-winning skills are a standout at youth level, and she’s shown an early knack for breaking up play and launching counterattacks. Combine that with her leadership qualities, and it’s not hard to imagine Lexi wearing the captain’s armband for the senior England team one day.
Nelly Las – A Future Star on the Right
Is Nelly Las England’s natural successor to Lucy Bronze? Maybe. While the two don’t play identical roles — Bronze being a traditional right-back and Las operating more as a wing-back or winger — there’s a shared energy, presence, and versatility that’s hard to ignore.
At only 17, Las already turns heads with her pace, power, and 1v1 defending ability. She’s confident in possession, physically strong, and dangerous both defensively and going forward. Her tactical awareness is developing quickly, and her performances for England youth teams have consistently impressed.
Whether she develops into an attacking full-back or stays further up the pitch, Las is undoubtedly a right-sided player with top-level potential.
Ava Baker – A Clinical, All-Round Attacker
Ava Baker is no stranger to the scoresheet. The 19-year-old forward has been a consistent goal scorer at youth level for both club and country, and now she’s beginning to transition into the senior game.
What makes Baker stand out isn’t just her finishing — it’s her composure, creativity, and work ethic. She can beat defenders with pace and trickery, but also reads the game well and makes unselfish runs off the ball. She’s not just a poacher; she’s a well-rounded attacker who can press, assist, and link up play.
With the right minutes and mentorship, Baker could become a true asset for the senior England side.
Special Mention: Mari Ward
While we’ve highlighted three names above, it wouldn’t feel right not to mention Mari Ward. Her recent performances for both club and country have caught our attention. A tough, reliable defender with the ability to carry the ball forward and break lines, Ward is starting to set herself apart. She’s strong in the tackle, comfortable under pressure, and beginning to add attacking instincts to her already solid game.
Another name to watch — without question.
Final Thoughts
All of these players have one thing in common: potential. But potential needs patience. Each of them still has developing to do — technically, physically, and mentally. What they need now is consistent game time, the right coaching environments, and the chance to play alongside more experienced players.
We believe in letting young players grow without pressure. No hype trains. No unfair expectations. Just support, belief, and space to evolve naturally.
But if they stay fit, continue learning, and get the chances they deserve, we think these names — Potter, Las, Baker, and Ward — could become fixtures in the England setup in the years to come.
