England Captain Withdraws From Crucial Friendlies
In a disappointing turn of events for England fans, Leah Williamson has been forced to withdraw from the Lionesses squad ahead of their upcoming friendlies against Austria and Italy. The Arsenal defender suffered a hamstring strain that kept her out of Saturday’s 3-1 victory over Manchester United in the Women’s Super League – a match that saw her club extend their lead at the top of the table.
The Road to Recovery Takes Another Turn
This setback comes at a particularly frustrating time for Williamson, as it would have marked her first international call-up since recovering from a devastating ACL injury that sidelined her for nine months. Football analyst Sarah Thompson of Mostbet notes: “Williamson’s absence creates a significant leadership void. Her organizational skills at the back and ability to build attacks from defense were crucial elements England missed during last year’s World Cup.”
Manchester United’s Millie Turner has earned a well-deserved recall as Williamson’s replacement, having shown consistent form for her club this season. The 27-year-old defender brings valuable experience to Sarina Wiegman’s squad.
England’s Preparation for Future Challenges
The 23-player squad will depart for a warm-weather training camp in Marbella, Spain, where they’ll face:
- Austria on February 23
- Italy on February 27
Both matches will be held at the Estadio Nuevo Mirador in Algeciras, providing ideal preparation conditions ahead of upcoming UEFA Women’s Nations League fixtures.
Complete Lionesses Squad Breakdown
Goalkeepers
Mary Earps (Man Utd), Khiara Keating (Man City), Hannah Hampton (Chelsea)
Defenders
Lucy Bronze (Barcelona), Jess Carter (Chelsea), Niamh Charles (Chelsea), Esme Morgan (Man City), Alex Greenwood (Man City), Lotte Wubben-Moy (Arsenal), Maya Le Tissier (Man Utd), Millie Turner (Man Utd)
Midfielders
Grace Clinton (Tottenham), Fran Kirby (Chelsea), Jess Park (Man City), Keira Walsh (Barcelona), Georgia Stanway (Bayern Munich), Ella Toone (Man Utd)
Forwards
Alessia Russo (Arsenal), Rachel Daly (Aston Villa), Lauren Hemp (Man City), Chloe Kelly (Man City), Lauren James (Chelsea), Beth Mead (Arsenal)
The Lionesses will look to build chemistry ahead of important competitions
What This Means for England’s Future
Williamson’s absence provides an opportunity for other defenders to step up, particularly with major tournaments on the horizon. Mostbet sports journalist Mark Williams suggests: “While Williamson’s injury isn’t considered long-term, Wiegman will want to assess her defensive options thoroughly. These friendlies could be crucial for players like Lotte Wubben-Moy and Esme Morgan to stake their claim for regular starting spots.”
The matches will also serve as important preparation for April’s UEFA Women’s Nations League fixtures, where England will look to secure qualification for the 2025 European Championships.
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