England's Karen Bardsley expecting big things from Scotland

England goalkeeper Karen Bardsley is expecting a tough physical game against Scotland in their Women's Euro opener on Wednesday.

The Lionesses have won all six competitive meetings between the two sides, but the 32-year-old Manchester City keeper is expecting big things from the Scots.

Ahead of their Group D game in Utrecht, she said: "We're hoping that the game obviously goes in our favour but they're a fantastic side with some really good players.

"It's going to be a tough opposition because there's the rivalry and everything, so that's something that we're prepared for," she added.

The Lionesses crashed out of the group stages during their 2013 Euro campaign, but bounced back to claim a bronze medal two years later in the World Cup.

Despite the Lionesses' impressive track record against the Scots, Bardsley thinks history does not matter.

"I think in a tournament things are always a little more exciting," she said.

"They'll be a physical side, they've got some great technical ability, especially in the midfield, and up top we know that they're struggling with some injuries.

"But, I'm expecting a physical game," she added. "An aggressive game, a fast game, probably a direct game."

Scotland are missing key players Kim Little and Jennifer Beattie, who stayed at home with injuries, while midfielder Hayley Lauder is recovering from an injury and is unlikely to play on Wednesday.