Leah Williamson misses England World Cup qualifiers against Spain
England captain Leah Williamson has been ruled out of the upcoming Women’s World Cup qualifiers against Spain and Ukraine due to a hamstring injury.
The 29-year-old Arsenal defender will miss the crucial international window despite following a rigorous rehabilitation programme to prove her fitness.
Her absence forces a defensive reshuffle as the squad gathers at St George’s Park on Monday before travelling to the Iberian Peninsula.
Qualification in sight for Lionesses
Sarina Wiegman’s side can secure their place at next year’s World Cup in Brazil if they avoid defeat against Spain on Friday.
England currently sit top of their qualifying group with a flawless record of four wins from four matches.
This impressive run gives the European champions a three-point advantage over the world champions heading into the 20:00 BST kick-off.
Following the trip to Spain, the national team will host Ukraine at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium on Tuesday, 9 June.
Injury woes continue for skipper
This latest setback marks another frustrating chapter for the player who famously led her nation to back-to-back European Championship triumphs in 2022 and 2025.
The versatile centre-back has managed to start just two Women’s Super League matches during the current domestic campaign.
She previously underwent knee surgery following the historic Euro 2025 victory and has made only three international appearances since that tournament.
Fisk and Baggaley receive call-ups
Liverpool captain Grace Fisk has been drafted into the senior squad to replace the sidelined commander.
Brighton goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley also joins the travelling party to provide essential cover between the posts.
Manchester City prospect Khiara Keating will miss the opening clash as she undergoes mandatory return-to-play concussion protocols following her absence from Sunday’s FA Cup final.
Medical staff will conduct further assessments to determine whether the 19-year-old shot-stopper can return for the Ukraine fixture.
However, regular number one Hannah Hampton is widely expected to start in goal regardless of Keating’s availability.