Toone Back in England Squad for World Cup Qualifiers
Manchester United midfielder Ella Toone has been named in the England squad ahead of the critical Women's World Cup qualifying matches against Spain and Ukraine. The 26-year-old has not played for the Lionesses since November due to a hip injury that sidelined her for the latter half of the Women's Super League season.
Toone previously scored in England's commanding 8-0 victory over China in November, highlighting her importance to the team.
Inclusion of Key Players Despite Recent Injuries
Chelsea defender Lucy Bronze is also included in the squad despite missing Chelsea's recent WSL win over Manchester United and being seen wearing a protective boot. The 34-year-old has started three of England's four qualifying matches but remains a doubt for the upcoming World Sevens tournament next week.
Additionally, Chelsea striker Aggie Beever-Jones and London City Lionesses forward Freya Godfrey, both of whom missed the last training camp due to injury, have returned to the squad.
Notable Absences and Squad Details
However, 18-year-old midfielder Erica Meg Parkinson is not included following her unexpected call-up in March. Everton defender Ruby Mace, who has been in good form, is also absent from the squad once again.
The 25-player England squad will travel to Spain on 5 June for a 20:00 BST kick-off, before hosting Ukraine at Everton's Hill Dickinson Stadium on 9 June, also at 20:00 BST.
Current Standings and Qualification Scenario
England currently lead their qualifying group with four wins from four matches, including a crucial 1-0 victory over Spain at Wembley in April. A win in the remaining two matches will secure automatic qualification for the 2024 World Cup in Brazil, allowing England to avoid the play-off stage.
Focus on Goalkeepers
"Focus on errors can 'tarnish' goalkeepers - Hampton
Full England Squad
Goalkeepers: Hannah Hampton (Chelsea), Anna Moorhouse (Orlando Pride), Ellie Roebuck (Aston Villa)
Defenders: Lucy Bronze (Chelsea), Jess Carter (Gotham), Niamh Charles (Chelsea), Alex Greenwood (Manchester City), Lotte Wubben-Moy (Arsenal), Maya Le Tissier (Manchester United), Esme Morgan (Washington Spirit), Taylor Hinds (Arsenal), Leah Williamson (Arsenal)
Midfielders: Laura Blindkilde Brown (Manchester City), Lucia Kendall (Aston Villa), Jess Park (Manchester United), Georgia Stanway (Bayern Munich), Ella Toone (Manchester United), Keira Walsh (Chelsea)
Forwards: Aggie Beever-Jones (Chelsea), Chloe Kelly (Arsenal), Lauren James (Chelsea), Alessia Russo (Arsenal), Lauren Hemp (Manchester City), Freya Godfrey (London City Lionesses), Jess Park (Manchester United), Beth Mead (Arsenal)
