ANNA SIGNEUL has named the first ever Scotland women's team to head to a major championship ahead of Euro 2017.

The boss has picked 22 players for next month's tournament in the Netherlands, with another member to be added at the end of the week.

Scotland open their campaign against England on Wednesday 19 July after a warm-up clash with the Republic of Ireland at Stark's Park this weekend. 

Injury problems have struck in the build-up to the finals, with Kim Little, Lizzie Arnot and Jenny Beattie all ruled out, but Signeul is confident her balanced squad can cope with the absentees.

“It’s a strong squad with a great mix of youth and experience," she said.

"All the players have worked incredibly hard to reach this stage and deserve to play at the Euros.

“This year we have had the benefit of playing nine games which has helped build a unity within the group and the players are all focused on that first game against England.

“Before that, we take on Republic of Ireland at Stark’s Park and we’re looking forward to playing in front a big crowd to give the players the perfect send-off.

“The recent injury to Jenny Beattie is a blow and while all the players are gutted that she, Lizzie Arnot and Kim Little are out, it will add to our determination to do well for them as well as the entire country.”