Sarina Wiegman confirms Lionesses squad for Euro 2025 defence after big three withdrew

Sarina Wiegman has named her 23-player squad for next month’s Euro 2025 as England’s Lionesses look to defend their title despite absence of Mary Earps, Millie Bright and Fran Kirby

Sarina Wiegman says she has named a “well-balanced” squad as England look to defend their European championship in Switzerland next month – despite a number of high-profile withdrawals.

Arsenal’s Leah Williamson, fresh from winning the Champions League, will captain a squad that includes 13 players who were part of the triumphant 2022 squad. Seven players– Michelle Agyemang, Aggie Beever-Jones, Grace Clinton, Khiara Keating, Maya Le Tissier, Anna Moorhouse and Jess Park – will be appearing at their first major tournament while veteran Lucy Bronze is set to appear at a seventh major tournament.

“I know this is an exciting day, for the players and also for our fans and it underlines that the tournament is coming soon. Telling the players they have made the squad is always a great moment,” Wiegman said.

“They will all give everything to help us make the country proud. This group is a very well-balanced mix of players with multiple tournaments on their CVs and also those that will make their tournament debuts. I am excited to see what we are capable of this summer.

“At the same time, I do feel for those that have just missed out. I can only name 23 but there are more players who have been so important to us on our journey to Switzerland. We would not be here without them.

“As we look forward, we still have a month to go until we play the first game. After some important rest, we will all be working really hard to make sure we are ready to go on 5 July.”

Three of the team that started every game on the team’s path to glory three years ago had already ruled themselves out.

Goalkeeper Mary Earps quit after learning that she would be second choice to Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton, while Fran Kirby announced her retirement and was followed up by Millie Bright’s announcement that she would not be available to prioritise on her own wellbeing.

“My pride and ego tells me to go but I think the team and the fans deserve more. Right now I’m not able to give 100% mentally or physically.

“As much as I want to be out there running through brick walls for Eng­land and fighting alongside my teammates, stepping back is the right thing for my health, my future, the game and most importantly the team.

“It wouldn’t be fair for me to take the place and opportunity away from another player who is ready to give everything for the badge and country.”

Sophie Baggaley, Laura Blindkilde Brown, Missy Bo Kearns and Lucy Parker are on standby in case of any drop outs. They will stay with the squad at St George’s Park from the meet-up on Monday 16 June through to the day the squad travel to Switzerland on Monday 30 June.

England squad

Goalkeepers Hannah Hampton, Khiara Keating, Anna Moorhouse

Defenders Lucy Bronze, Jess Carter, Niamh Charles, Alex Greenwood, Maya Le Tissier, Esme Morgan, Leah Williamson (captain), Lotte Wubben-Moy

Midfielders Jess Park, Ella Toone, Grace Clinton, Georgia Stanway, Keira Walsh, Michelle Agyemang

Forwards Aggie Beever Jones, Lauren Hemp, Lauren James, Chloe Kelly, Beth Mead, Alessia Russo.

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