England women boss Sarina Wiegman has been watching Sunderland ‘Till I Die

England women boss Sarina Wiegman has revealed she’s been watching Sunderland ‘Till I Die in preparation for the Lionesses’ World Cup qualifier against Austria at the Stadium of Light next week.

Sunderland has produced several England internationals including four players from the current squad – Jill Scott, Jordan Nobbs, Beth Mead and Demi Stokes.

And manager Wiegman says she is looking forward to her first visit to the north east and has been enjoying learning about the city through the Netflix series on the League One club.

‘I’ve seen some of the documentary about Sunderland, about the men’s game,’ Wiegman said. ‘It was very interesting and [they have] a very strong fanbase. People have told me about the women’s game there and about how excited everyone is to go there.

‘The northern part of England has had a big impact in women’s football and in the development of the game.’

Sunderland has produced several England internationals including four players from the current squad – Jill Scott (above), Jordan Nobbs, Beth Mead and Demi Stokes

England have won all four of their group games under Wiegman by an aggregate score of 32-0 

England have won all four of their group games under Wiegman by an aggregate score of 32-0. But Austria, who the Lionesses will face in their first game of the Euros next summer, should provide a tougher test.

‘It is a big game, it’s the best opponent we get,’ Wiegman said. ‘I think Austria will bring more in possession and we’ll have to defend which is more challenging.’

Wiegman will be without Leah Williamson, who has been ruled out with what Arsenal have described as a ‘significant hamstring injury’. Williamson had deputised as captain in the absence of Steph Houghton but Wiegman has not decided who will wear the armband for the upcoming matches.