Williamson's Back! Can She Save England's World Cup Dream?

England fans, rejoice! The Lionesses are gearing up for their 2027 Women's World Cup qualifying campaign, and the big news is that captain Leah Williamson is back in the fold. It feels like ages since we saw her lift that Euro trophy, doesn't it?

Williamson's Back! Can She Save England's World Cu...

The 28-year-old Arsenal defender's return is a massive boost after that knee surgery sidelined her following England's Euro 2025 triumph. She missed some friendlies – wins against China, Ghana, and Australia, plus that tough loss to Brazil. But she's back playing club football, and that's the key. The team spokesperson emphasized that many players are still building fitness, explaining the bigger squad selection. It's smart management for a long campaign.

And Williamson isn't the only familiar face returning. Chelsea's Lauren James, 24, is back after an ankle injury that kept her out for four months. Her return is perfect timing, especially with Beth Mead still recovering from that fractured shin. Alex Greenwood, the Manchester City defender, is also back after a knee problem, and goalkeeper Hannah Hampton returns after a thigh issue. It's great to see key players returning to strength.

There are some fresh faces too! London City Lionesses defender Poppy Pattinson has earned her first senior call-up, and Freya Godfrey, the uncapped 20-year-old, retains her place. Aston Villa's Ellie Roebuck also gets a recall, replacing Khiara Keating. It’s good that Roebuck is back in the mix, getting game time at Villa. The spokesperson mentioned the competition among the goalkeepers, highlighting the depth in the squad.

Jess Carter, fresh from the NWSL play-offs with Gotham FC, is back as well. However, not everyone's available. Manchester United's Ella Toone is unfortunately sidelined with a hip injury until the end of March, and Anouk Denton, who debuted recently, isn't included this time around. It's the nature of the game, injuries happen, and squads evolve.

The Lionesses kick off their qualifying campaign against Ukraine in Turkey on Tuesday, March 3, followed by a home game against Iceland at the City Ground on Saturday, March 7. This is a new challenge; they'll face new opposition and eventually, even the reigning world champions, Spain. It’s the start of a long road – eight international windows – leading up to the World Cup in Brazil between June 24 and July 25, 2027. Let's hope they get there!

The team spokesperson summed it up nicely: "It's a new year with new objectives as we start our qualification journey… This is new opposition for this England team, so that's exciting too. I am looking forward to being back with the squad and getting back to work." So are we! Bring on the World Cup qualifiers!