Wiegman admits selecting England squad was a ‘puzzle’ | OneFootball

Sarina Wiegman admits putting together her England squad was a “bit of a puzzle” due to injury problems and players only just returning to fitness.

Lauren James and Leah Williamson are among those back in the squad having recovered from their injury issues.

There are several others within the squad that have also only recently returned to fitness, however, and Wiegman admits there is a lot to consider for the World Cup qualifiers against Iceland and Ukraine in March.

“There is a little bit of a puzzle at the moment but at the same time I think we have enough players in the squad to play good games and to have players on the pitch who are fit and can perform at the highest level,” she said.

“That is what we need to do and want to do of course. We have this week at club and then they come with us, then we have some proper time to get ready for the game on the Tuesday.

“We will see where we get, but I am confident we can get a good team on the pitch.”

Beth Mead and Ella Toone are not in the squad due to being sidelined with injury.

“Of course you want them in the team,” Wiegman said. “You know you have seen in all of the camps we have had players have lots of games, very high level and there are always a couple of players who are injured who we can’t bring in. That’s part of our football life too.”

But the Lionesses boss is delighted to have Williamson back involved, though says she will need to be mindful of her recent return.

“She has trained, I am in close contact with her and the club [Arsenal],” she said. “She is in a good place but she does have a lack of minutes.”