Experienced Pair Recalled to Latest England Women Squad After Injuries

As the Lionesses prepare for their UEFA Nations League fixtures against Belgium this April, England Women’s head coach Sarina Wiegman has named a 25-player squad that features some familiar faces returning from injury. With Euro 2025 fast approaching, Wiegman is keen to ensure her team is in top form ahead of defending their continental title in Switzerland this summer.

England Women’s Squad for Belgium Double-Header

The England Women’s team has been in solid form heading into the international break, with an impressive start to the 2025 Nations League campaign. The Lionesses began the year with a goalless draw against Portugal, followed by a statement win over world champions Spain in February. With these results, England have laid a solid foundation as they look to continue their strong run into the Euro 2025 tournament.

For the upcoming double-header against Belgium, Wiegman has opted for a mix of experienced players and fresh faces. While the bulk of the squad remains consistent, there are a few notable additions and omissions that have generated significant attention. As always, the depth of talent at Wiegman’s disposal means competition for places is fierce, and every selection matters as England gears up for what promises to be a thrilling year of football.

New Faces and Familiar Returns

One of the key highlights of Wiegman’s squad is the inclusion of Brighton & Hove Albion’s Maisie Symonds, who receives her first senior call-up to the England Women’s team. The 20-year-old midfielder has been a standout performer in the Women’s Super League this season, catching the eye with her consistent performances and composure on the ball. Symonds’ inclusion marks an exciting new chapter in her career, and the call-up is well-deserved following her impressive rise at club level.

Chloe Kelly, who was initially omitted from the February squad due to concerns over a lack of match fitness at club level, returns to the fold. Kelly’s absence earlier this year raised a few eyebrows, but with her recent return to full fitness, she’s back in the squad and looking to make an impact. The talented winger was drafted in as an injury replacement in February, and now with the benefit of more game time, Wiegman will be eager to see her at her best in April’s fixtures.

Big Returns from Injury: Fran Kirby and Beth Mead

Injury concerns have plagued some of England’s most influential players over the past year, but the good news is that both Fran Kirby and Beth Mead are back in contention for a spot in the starting XI. Kirby, who has been one of England’s most creative players in recent years, returns after an extended period on the sidelines. The Chelsea midfielder has struggled with injuries but will be an important asset as the Lionesses prepare for their Euro 2025 defence.

Beth Mead, the Arsenal forward who was instrumental in England’s Euro 2022 triumph, also makes her return to the squad. Mead has been recovering from an injury that kept her out for several months, and her return to full fitness will be a huge boost to the team. The 63-cap forward is a proven goal scorer and a key figure in England’s attacking setup, and her inclusion will provide the squad with much-needed experience and firepower as they face Belgium in April.

New Goalkeeping Addition: Khiara Keating

Another exciting addition to the squad is 20-year-old goalkeeper Khiara Keating, who earns her first call-up to the senior team after some standout performances at Manchester City. Keating’s inclusion brings depth to the goalkeeping pool, and Wiegman will be keen to see how the talented youngster fares alongside seasoned internationals like Mary Earps and Hannah Hampton.

With the European Championship just around the corner, the decision to bring in a new goalkeeper may signal that Wiegman is keen to see how Keating fits into the senior set-up ahead of what could be an exciting future for the young keeper. The Lionesses’ goalkeeper ranks are currently in a strong position, with Earps and Hampton both having significant experience at international level. However, the addition of Keating ensures that the team has a strong backup option should any injury concerns arise.

Notable Absence: Gabby George

While Wiegman’s squad is largely unchanged, there is one notable absentee: Manchester United left-back Gabby George. George had impressed towards the end of 2024 and had worked her way back into the England setup after a long absence. However, she has not been selected for this particular international break, raising some questions about her current status within the squad.

Despite this setback, George will surely remain part of Wiegman’s plans for the future. With a busy schedule ahead and more competitions on the horizon, George’s opportunity to reassert herself in the England fold could come soon. But for now, Wiegman has opted to go in a different direction, with the likes of Millie Bright, Lucy Bronze, and Jess Carter leading the defensive charge.

England’s Record Against Belgium

England’s recent history against Belgium has been largely positive under Wiegman’s tenure. In four meetings between the sides, England has emerged victorious three times, but the most recent encounter ended in disappointment for the Lionesses. Belgium defeated England 1-0 in Leuven in October 2023, handing the Lionesses their first loss to the Belgians under Wiegman’s stewardship. The defeat will be fresh in the minds of the players as they look to get back to winning ways when they face Belgium in April.

England’s first match will take place at Ashton Gate in Bristol on Friday, April 4, in front of a sold-out crowd. The second fixture will see the Lionesses travel to Leuven to face Belgium again on April 8. With both teams looking to build momentum in the Nations League, the fixtures will be a crucial test for England as they prepare for the summer’s Euro 2025 tournament.

A Look at the Full 25-Player Squad

Here is the full 25-player squad that Sarina Wiegman has selected for the upcoming international break:

Goalkeepers:

• Mary Earps (PSG) – 53 caps
• Hannah Hampton (Chelsea) – 11 caps
• Khiara Keating (Man City) – 0 caps
• Anna Moorhouse (Orlando Pride) – 0 caps

Defenders:

• Millie Bright (Chelsea) – 86 caps
• Lucy Bronze (Chelsea) – 129 caps
• Jess Carter (NJ/NY Gotham) – 40 caps
• Niamh Charles (Chelsea) – 20 caps
• Maya Le Tissier (Man Utd) – 7 caps
• Esme Morgan (Washington Spirit) – 10 caps
• Lucy Parker (Aston Villa) – 0 caps
• Millie Turner (Man Utd) – 2 caps
• Leah Williamson (Arsenal) – 53 caps

Midfielders:

• Grace Clinton (Man Utd) – 7 caps
• Fran Kirby (Brighton) – 75 caps
• Jess Park (Man City) – 15 caps
• Maisie Symonds (Brighton) – 0 caps
• Ella Toone (Man Utd) – 55 caps
• Keira Walsh (Chelsea) – 82 caps

Forwards:

• Aggie Beever-Jones (Chelsea) – 3 caps
• Lauren James (Chelsea) – 26 caps
• Chloe Kelly (Arsenal) – 50 caps
• Beth Mead (Arsenal) – 63 caps
• Nikita Parris (Brighton) – 72 caps
• Alessia Russo (Arsenal) – 48 caps

Conclusion: Eyes on Euro 2025

As the Lionesses turn their attention to their upcoming fixtures against Belgium, all eyes will be on the players returning from injury, as well as the new additions to the squad. With Euro 2025 on the horizon, Sarina Wiegman has carefully selected a squad that blends experience with youthful energy. The upcoming double-header will be a vital opportunity for the team to build chemistry, test new combinations, and make sure they are fully prepared for their title defence in Switzerland.