Fara Williams backs the Lionesses ahead of Arnold Clark Cup

Lionesses legend Fara Williams says the unique challenges of England’s Milton Keynes Arnold Clark Cup test will provide the perfect preparation for this year’s World Cup. Sarina Wiegman's European champions kick off their title defence against Korea Republic at Stadium MK on Thursday before facing Italy and Belgium later in the week, with over 70,000 tickets sold.

Ad And Williams, who played in three World Cups and four European Championships for England, believes the unknown threat of the Koreans can help lay the foundations for an assault on global glory in Australia this summer. FootballLaura Coombs returns to England duty for first time in eight years33 MINUTES AGO The 39-year-old said: «The Lionesses are going to be even greater this year.

»Last year, the Arnold Clark Cup was the tournament that really sent the Lionesses on their way to success and gave them that confidence going into the Euros. «This time it's a different test, with three different types of opposition preparing them for the World Cup in Australia.

»The likes of Korea Republic, a team from the Asian continent that we don't really play that much, will be the one I'm looking forward to the most. «With Alessia Russo and Ella Toone now having to make their impact at the start, this tournament might be a chance for Sarina to look at new impact players that will make those differences for us.

»When I've played against Korea in the past, they're a team that like to dominate possession and very technical on the ball. «That is something that the Lionesses might not be as used to so it will be a new test.» Whilst Korea will provide a relatively new and distinct style of play, with a range of talent unfaced at club level, Italy will be ready to reverse