Sarina Wiegman has named the England squad that will face Portugal and Spain in the UEFA Women’s Nations League later this month.
There are notable omissions through injury, with Bayern Munich’s Georgia Stanway sidelined after undergoing knee surgery for a torn lateral ligament last month. Alex Greenwood and Lauren Hemp, both of Manchester City, are also absent – opening up space for Niamh Charles and Lauren James to return from injuries of their own.
Ella Toone returns from injury too after finding form for Manchester United in the Women’s Super League, while Nikita Parris is rewarded with a call-up for her performances with Brighton.
Laura Blindkilde Brown and Ruby Mace retain their places in the squad after making their senior debuts in December.
Speaking on the squad announcement, Wiegman said: “These are two big games to start 2025. It is exciting that we have the chance to write a new chapter in our story in the months ahead, especially with the EURO this summer, but we will focus first on what is right in front of us and a very important Nations League campaign.”
England will look to defend their European title in Switzerland this summer but must first navigate a tricky campaign in the UEFA Women’s Nations League, which will see them pitted against Portugal, Spain and Belgium.
On their first two opponents, Wiegman commented: “Portugal are getting stronger all the time and it will be good for us to get a week’s training together in what we hope will be great conditions, both on and off the pitch, before we play.”
“We then have another special occasion at Wembley against Spain. I’m sure we will get great support, and we can’t wait to see our fans again. Hard work during the week and our performances in these two matches can give us a strong foundation for a big year ahead.”