The short version
- Ella Toone and Chloe Kelly are excluded from the squad despite their combined 136 caps and recent tournament success.
- Manager Sarina Wiegman stated that both players have failed to meet performance expectations in recent weeks.
- Chelsea midfielder Lexi Potter receives her first senior call-up, while captain Leah Williamson returns to the lineup.
The England women's national team has undergone significant personnel changes ahead of critical World Cup qualifying play-offs, with manager Sarina Wiegman opting to leave out two of the squad's most experienced attackers. Ella Toone and Chloe Kelly, who have made a combined 136 appearances for their country, were not included in the twenty-three-player roster announced for the upcoming double-header against Greece. This decision marks a notable shift in selection strategy as the team prepares for matches that will determine their progression to the next stage of qualification.
Wiegman attributed the exclusions directly to recent performances at the club level rather than injury concerns or disciplinary issues. She stated that both players have not been playing to their potential in the weeks leading up to the announcement. Toone, a midfielder for Manchester United, and Kelly, an Arsenal forward, have experienced inconsistent starts to the current season. The manager emphasized that her decision was based on what she observed on the pitch, dismissing reports that suggested Kelly's absence might be linked to a physical ailment.
Despite the omission, Wiegman expressed continued faith in the abilities of both Toone and Kelly. She acknowledged their significant contributions during Euro 2022 and Euro 2025, tournaments where England secured back-to-back titles. The manager noted that she had difficult conversations with both players regarding their recent form, but they accepted the feedback professionally. Wiegman indicated that she remains convinced of their high quality and believes they can improve their current output.
The squad announcement also featured the return of captain Leah Williamson to the starting lineup. Williamson had missed previous fixtures, including a defeat against Spain and a victory over Ukraine in June. Wiegman praised Williamson's recent performances, noting that she has played well since the start of the season and appears happy and confident. Her inclusion signals a restoration of leadership stability for the team as they face high-pressure matches.
In a move highlighting the depth of English talent, Chelsea midfielder Lexi Potter received her first senior call-up. The twenty-year-old has impressed in the Women's Super League, starting three of Chelsea's opening four matches and delivering a standout performance in a win over Arsenal. Wiegman highlighted Potter's courage, understanding of the game, and technical ability. She noted that Potter remains composed against high-level opposition, suggesting she is ready to contribute at the international level.
Other notable changes include the return of Manchester City defender Niamh Charles from injury and the inclusion of several uncapped players. Eighteen-year-old midfielder Erica Meg Parkinson, who has excelled since joining North Carolina Courage in the summer, was named alongside London City Lionesses forward Freya Godfrey and Liverpool defender Grace Fisk. These selections reflect a blend of experienced returnees and emerging talent aimed at strengthening the squad's versatility.
Several other prominent players were also left out of the final roster. Chelsea forward Aggie Beever-Jones and Arsenal defenders Lotte Wubben-Moy and Taylor Hinds did not make the cut. The remaining squad features a mix of established internationals and new faces, with goalkeepers Hannah Hampton, Khiara Keating, and Anna Moorhouse providing options in net. Defenders Lucy Bronze, Jess Carter, Alex Greenwood, Maya Le Tissier, and Esme Morgan round out the backline.
The stakes for these upcoming matches are high, as England must win both legs against Greece to advance to the second round of play-offs. A victory would secure a spot in the competition for a place in the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil. The first match is scheduled for October 9 in Crete, followed by the return leg on October 13 in Leicester. The team must navigate this challenging period without two of its key attacking figures, relying on new combinations and returning leaders to secure qualification.
The midfield lineup includes Laura Blindkilde Brown, Lucia Kendall, Georgia Stanway, and Keira Walsh, providing experience and creativity. Forwards Lauren Hemp, Lauren James, Beth Mead, Jess Park, and Alessia Russo offer attacking depth. The absence of Toone and Kelly forces Wiegman to rely on this broader group to deliver the necessary results. The coming weeks will test the squad's resilience and adaptability as they seek to maintain their status among the world's top teams.
This selection decision underscores Wiegman's commitment to performance-based choices, even when it involves sidelining decorated veterans. By prioritizing current form over past achievements, the manager is sending a clear message about the standards required for international duty. The outcome of the Greece ties will likely influence future selection policies and highlight the depth of talent available within the English football system.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- BBC News↗Toone and Kelly miss out on Lionesses squad
