England U23s Coach Emma Coates Affirms Khiara Keating Possesses ‘Huge Potential’ Amid Senior Squad Exclusion

England under-23s head coach Emma Coates has stated that Manchester City goalkeeper Khiara Keating “is someone with huge potential.” The 20-year-old, who was the youngest goalkeeper to win the WSL’s Golden Glove award, earned the accolade last season by securing nine clean sheets and conceding the fewest goals in the Women’s Super League. However, Keating was not selected for Sarina Wiegman’s senior Lionesses squad this month and has encountered increased competition for a position in the City team following the summer arrival of Japan international Ayaka Yamashita. Regarding Keating’s return to the under-23s squad, Coates commented, “She’s been brilliant since she’s been with us. We know Khiara is someone with huge potential.” Coates further added, “We’re here to support her. I have no doubts that Khiara will make that step across back to the senior squad again hopefully.” She explained the role of the under-23s program: “When she needs football and wants to be back in the conversation, that is why the under-23s programme exists. We have to remember how young she is.” Coates concluded by highlighting Keating’s experience: “She has had so many positive experiences in the WSL and with the England senior team. She comes back with us and has an opportunity to get some minutes.”