England monitor Leah Williamson ahead of Sarina Wiegman squad announcement

Editorial Team
/ 2 min read

England manager Sarina Wiegman faces a nervous wait over the fitness of captain Leah Williamson ahead of her upcoming squad announcement.

The influential defender represents one of two major injury concerns currently occupying the thoughts of the Lionesses coaching staff.

Reports indicate that the national team medical department is closely evaluating the situation alongside club staff.

Injury setbacks for the skipper

Williamson has endured a deeply frustrating period with physical setbacks over the past 18 months.

The Arsenal centre-back famously missed the 2023 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand due to a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.

Since returning to domestic action, the 27-year-old has had to carefully manage her playing minutes to avoid aggravating any underlying issues.

Wiegman forced to consider alternatives

The Dutch coach must now weigh up whether to risk including her captain or allow further recovery time in north London.

An absence from the international setup would be a significant blow for the European champions as they build towards their Euro 2025 title defence.

Should the versatile defender be formally ruled out, Wiegman has several capable deputies waiting in the wings to fill the void.

The final squad list is expected to reflect a highly cautious approach to player welfare during an incredibly congested domestic calendar.