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Williamson Ruled Out as England Reshuffle Squad Ahead of Mallorca World Cup Qualifier

Williamson's hamstring alongside Keating's concussion protocols force selection changes before a Mallorca match where a point would secure England's automatic World Cup place.

Overview

  • England confirmed on Monday that captain Leah Williamson has been ruled out of the next two qualifiers with a hamstring injury, removing a regular starter from the centre of defence and captaincy duties.
  • Goalkeeper Khiara Keating will remain with Manchester City while she follows return-to-play concussion protocols and will miss the trip to Palma with her availability for the Ukraine game to be reassessed.
  • Liverpool defender Grace Fisk and Brighton goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley have been called up as direct replacements, giving manager Sarina Wiegman fresh defensive and goalkeeping options in camp.
  • Ella Toone has been recalled after recovering from a hip injury and may provide attacking creativity off the bench while Chelsea forward Lauren James remains an uncertain selection because of a minor knock.
  • A point in Mallorca would guarantee England top spot in Group A3 and automatic qualification for the 2027 World Cup, so these fitness losses intensify short-term selection choices and could change tactics for both the Spain and Ukraine matches.