Ella Toone, Chloe Kelly and Other Lionesses Face Crucial Tests Ahead of World Cup Selection
During a recent international break, Ella Toone, Chloe Kelly, Aggie Beever-Jones, and Grace Clinton experienced a tough message from coach Sarina Wiegman. They missed out on initial squad selections or playing time and now face the challenge of responding effectively if they want to secure their places for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
Two matches expected to be straightforward victories for England brought more questions than answers. With new formations being tested and four players making their debuts, this period could mark a turning point in the international careers of some regulars.
Kelly Must Prove Herself Again
Chloe Kelly was notably left out of the squad, sparking debates about her fitness and form. While Wiegman stated Kelly wasn’t performing well enough, Arsenal’s manager, Renee Slegers, mentioned hamstring issues that weren’t visibly serious. Kelly has missed Arsenal’s last two games and must regain consistent playing time and impact. She admitted feeling disappointed with her performances last season, especially since her standout play at the 2025 European Championship, which helped Arsenal win the Champions League.
Kelly’s future might also depend on whether Wiegman continues using a wing-back system, which doesn't suit Kelly's natural position. This tactical shift adds uncertainty to her role in the team.
Midfield Battles Intensify
The switch to a formation featuring more midfielders gave Wiegman the chance to test various players. Veterans like Ella Toone and Grace Clinton were initially left out but later called up due to injuries. Meanwhile, new talents such as Lexi Potter and Erica Parkinson made their debuts, intensifying competition.
- Keira Walsh: Regular starter
- Georgia Stanway: Midfield contributor
- Laura Blindkilde Brown: Emerging talent
- Lexi Potter: Debutante
- Erica Parkinson: Debutante
- Lucia Kendall: Injured, missed recent call-up
This crowded midfield means Toone and Clinton must work hard to reclaim their spots. Others like Jess Park, Lauren James, and Beth Mead also compete for more advanced midfield roles.
Club Form Will Decide Comebacks
Ella Toone seems closest to returning to regular national duty. Though she was an unused substitute during Manchester United’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal in September, she has played regularly since and is integral to United’s improving fortunes. New coach Eva Olid expressed confidence in Toone's chances to return to the Lionesses.
Grace Clinton has had a tougher time after moving to Manchester City in 2025. Injuries, limited game time, and fierce competition have hindered her progress. She only started once this season, in a league victory over Charlton Athletic. City’s head coach, Andree Jeglertz, remains hopeful but insists Clinton needs greater consistency to earn a spot in England’s squad for next summer's World Cup in Brazil.
Striker Spot Narrowing for Beever-Jones
Aggie Beever-Jones, Chelsea’s striker, has struggled to find form, scoring no competitive goals since March’s League Cup final. Wiegman confirmed Beever-Jones was omitted not due to injury but because she must improve her performances. Surprisingly, the coach included Alessia Russo as the only specialist striker in the squad, relying on versatile forwards like Lauren Hemp, Beth Mead, and Lauren James to cover other attacking roles.
Beever-Jones will need to overcome injuries and rediscover her scoring touch at Chelsea under coach Sonia Bompastor. Like Toone, Kelly, and Clinton, she faces a critical period to prove she belongs in the World Cup squad.
