England captain Leah Williamson is set to make her return to the Lionesses squad after a year-long absence due to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. The 27-year-old centre-back will start in the Lionesses' upcoming Euro 2025 qualifiers match against the Republic of Ireland, as confirmed by head coach Sarina Wiegman.
Williamson, who last featured for England in April 2023 before sustaining her injury, expressed her excitement and emotional connection to playing for her national team. Despite facing setbacks, including a minor hamstring issue earlier this year, Williamson remained determined to make her comeback.
Reflecting on her journey, Williamson highlighted the support she received from her teammates and the motivation she drew from witnessing England's success, particularly their Euro 2022 triumph. She emphasized the competitive spirit within the squad and the desire to continue improving as a team.
Having missed out on the 2023 World Cup, Williamson's return signifies a significant milestone in her recovery process. She acknowledged the challenges she faced during her rehabilitation but remained focused on rejoining the squad and contributing to England's continued success.
As she prepares to step back onto the pitch, Williamson expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent her country once again and to be part of a team that she holds dear. Her dedication to the Lionesses and her unwavering commitment to the sport have been evident throughout her journey back to full fitness.
With Williamson's return, England fans can look forward to seeing a key player back in action, ready to make her mark on the team once more. As she takes to the field against the Republic of Ireland, all eyes will be on Williamson as she resumes her role as a leader and a vital presence in the Lionesses' lineup.
