To understand the significance of the England vs Spain match for the players, one need only look at Leah Williamson's unwavering dedication. Despite not having played for almost a month, the Lionesses captain is pushing herself to the limit to be fit for the crucial showdown at Wembley on Tuesday. If the world champions were not visiting, it's unlikely Williamson would be considered for selection with so many vital games on the horizon for both club and country. However, the Arsenal centre-back has been putting in extra work, collaborating privately with the medical team while also participating in tactical preparations at St George's Park.
With only the group's top team guaranteed a spot in the World Cup, this match could be the defining moment in the qualification journey. Williamson's determination to be part of this pivotal game is palpable.
Should she not be risked, the centre-back partnership could fall to two of England's most patient players. Lotte Wubben-Moy and Esme Morgan are vying for a starting spot alongside Jess Carter, Alex Greenwood, and Maya Le Tissier, with both having seen game time in recent qualifiers. Wubben-Moy, the ultimate squad player, has had to overcome self-doubt throughout her international career but brings a unique perspective to the game, closely analyzing her performances and physical condition with the help of her partner Tao Geoghan-Hart.
Her community work also keeps her grounded, as seen when players from her foundation attended her training session last week. Morgan's journey to a potential starting role has been marked by a significant career gamble, leaving Manchester City for Washington Spirit, which has paid off as she's developed substantially and played a crucial part in her club's back-to-back NWSL Championship appearances. If Morgan and Wubben-Moy were to start together at Wembley, it would be a full-circle moment for the pair, who were first called up to the national team in the same camp in 2020.
Having spent many hours on the bench together, they may now become England's most crucial players as they face off against the world's number one ranked team.