Ella Toone Makes Key Return to England Squad for World Cup Qualifiers
Manchester United midfielder Ella Toone has made her comeback to the England squad for the pivotal Women's World Cup qualifiers against Spain and Ukraine. The 26-year-old had been sidelined since November due to a hip injury, which kept her out for the latter part of the Women's Super League season. Chelsea defender Lucy Bronze is also part of the squad, despite missing the recent WSL victory over Manchester United and being seen in a protective boot. The 34-year-old has been a key player, starting three of England's four qualifying matches, but her participation in the upcoming World Sevens tournament remains uncertain. Additionally, Chelsea striker Aggie Beever-Jones and London City Lionesses forward Freya Godfrey, both of whom were unable to participate in the last camp due to injuries, have returned. Notably absent is 18-year-old midfielder Erica Meg Parkinson, who was unexpectedly called up in March, while in-form Everton defender Ruby Mace continues to miss out. England's 25-player squad will travel to Spain on 5 June (20:00 BST) and will host Ukraine at Everton's Hill Dickinson Stadium on 9 June (20:00). The Lionesses currently lead their qualifying group with four wins from four matches, including a crucial 1-0 victory over Spain at Wembley in April. If England secures victories in their final two matches, they will automatically qualify for the World Cup in Brazil next year, bypassing the play-off stage.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-05-19