England assess fit-again Leah Williamson ahead of Iceland qualifier
England will make a late decision on the fitness of returning captain Leah Williamson ahead of their crucial Women’s World Cup qualifier against Iceland in Reykjavik.
The Lionesses travel to the Laugardalsvollur stadium seeking vital points in Group A3 of their qualification campaign.
Manager Sarina Wiegman must now decide whether to risk her influential central defender from the start.
The 27-year-old has recently returned to full fitness following a frustrating spell on the sidelines.
Defensive dilemma for the visitors
Wiegman’s side have coped admirably during her absence but the team’s structure always benefits from elite distribution at the back.
Starting the Arsenal stalwart could provide a significant psychological boost for the visiting European champions.
However, the national team medical staff will be cautious not to rush their leader back into a physically demanding international fixture.
Crucial points at stake in Group A3
Securing a victory in the Nordic nation is paramount for England’s ambitions of comfortably topping their qualification group.
Iceland have historically proven to be incredibly stubborn opposition on their home turf.
The hosts will be heavily motivated to frustrate the visitors and capitalise on any transitional vulnerabilities.
A strong away performance will be essential to set a positive tone for the remainder of this critical qualifying cycle.
