The 2023 World Cup is just around the corner – who will step up the challenge and be a key player for England in the tournament?

England have a slew of players out injured for the World Cup – including the 2022 Euros’ top goalscorer, Beth Mead. As such, the door is now wide open for other, more underrated talents to make their mark on the grandest stage in football.

We’ll run you through a few potential candidates for England’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the 2023 World Cup – then, we will present you with our pick.

We’ll be looking at players all over the pitch, from defenders and goalkeepers to midfielders and strikers. Who will be a star for the Lionesses in 2023?

Contenders For England MVP

First of all, we’d like to present none other than Rachel Daly. The 31-year-old has had a sensational season for Aston Villa in the WSL – she is currently the division’s leading goalscorer, with 21 goals in 21 league appearances.

As always, Lucy Bronze will be a key player for the Lionesses. One of the most natural talented female footballers on the planet, she has struggled with injuries this season – but her quality is undeniable.

We’d also like to give a special mention to Mary Earps, who has been outstanding between the sticks for Manchester United this season – she has played a pivotal role in the Red Devils’ underdog campaign.

Our Pick

It’s possibly a left-field pick, but we can’t look beyond Manchester United’s Maya Le Tissier for England’s most important player at the 2023 World Cup.

Not only is Le Tissier an excellent defender, she also possesses a range of passing that would make most midfielders blush. Her accurate long balls have been a key factor in United’s success this season.

At just 21 years of age, the World Cup could be a major breakout tournament for this young woman. How will she respond to the pressure of a major international tourney?