England women squad news: Who’s in and who’s out for the World Cup qualifiers?
England captain Leah Williamson and forward Lauren James headline a number of high-profile returns in Sarina Wiegman’s latest 25-player squad for the 2027 World Cup qualifiers.
The build-up has been shaped by persistent injury concerns and important recalls that have forced the England manager to be cautious when making her selections.
Here, Sports News Blitz writer Liberty Nicholson-Hulse breaks down the key talking points from England’s latest squad announcement, taking a closer look at the notable inclusions and absences shaping Wiegman’s plans.
Who returns to the England squad?
For the first time since lifting their second successive European crown in Switzerland in July 2025, Williamson is back with the national team.
The Arsenal Women defender underwent surgery after the tournament and has started just once in the Women’s Super League since returning in December.
Despite her recent return, Wiegman has shown little hesitation in recalling her captain, underlining her importance both on the pitch and inside the England camp.
Williamson is not the only significant boost for Wiegman.
Chelsea Women forward Lauren James has returned to full fitness after four months sidelined with an ankle injury.
With Beth Mead ruled out by a fractured shin, James’ comeback adds genuine threat to England’s forward line.
Her ability to create chances strengthens Wiegman’s options in the final third.
There is further defensive reinforcement with the recalls of Alex Greenwood and Jess Carter, while goalkeeper Hannah Hampton returns after missing November’s camp with a thigh issue.
Hampton is expected to resume her role as first-choice, with Ellie Roebuck preferred over Khiara Keating, who will instead join England’s Under-23s squad amid concerns over her limited minutes at Manchester City.
Who misses out?
Wiegman has been forced to navigate absences in several parts of the squad.
Ella Toone remains unavailable with a hip injury until the end of March, while Niamh Charles, Missy Bo Kearns, Katie Reid and Michelle Agyemang are also sidelined.
The injuries have left Wiegman in a tough position working with limited options, forcing her to balance experience with fitness as she shapes her squad ahead of the qualifiers.
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Are there any new faces?
Even as Wiegman relies heavily on her most trusted players amid the setbacks, there is still an opportunity for domestic form to influence squad plans.
London City Lionesses defender Poppy Pattinson has earned her first senior call-up, and uncapped 20-year-old Freya Godfrey also retains her place.
Who are England facing?
England open their qualifying campaign against Ukraine in Turkey on March 3 before hosting Iceland at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground four days later.
They will also come up against reigning world champions Spain later in the group, which is a test that highlights the importance of building momentum early in the fixtures.
What does the squad mean for England’s campaign?
The bigger picture is clear. With Williamson, James and Hampton restored, 10 players of the XI that started in the Euro 2025 final are back in the running.
While Wiegman admitted selection was far from straightforward, this squad leans on experience and leadership, and this may prove decisive.
As England begin their pursuit of a first Women’s World Cup title, their captain has returned to lead and stabilise the team.
With the core of the team that delivered European success also in place, the Lionesses seem determined to set the tone and build momentum from the very start of their campaign.
