To understand the significance of the England vs Spain match for the players, look no further than Leah Williamson. Despite not playing for almost a month, the Lionesses captain is working tirelessly to prove her fitness and lead her team at Wembley on Tuesday. If the world champions weren't visiting, Williamson's chances of starting would be slim, given the numerous important games ahead for club and country.
However, she has been putting in extra effort, working privately with the medical team and participating in tactical preparations at St George's Park. With only the group's top team guaranteed to qualify for the World Cup, this match could be pivotal in determining who goes to Brazil. Williamson is determined not to miss out. If she is not risked, Lotte Wubben-Moy and Esme Morgan may form the centre-back partnership instead.
Both players have been given game-time during recent qualifiers and are battling for a starting spot alongside Jess Carter, Alex Greenwood, and Maya Le Tissier. Wubben-Moy, the ultimate squad player, has been an unused substitute in major tournaments and has only played 16 times since her first call-up almost six years ago.
Despite her limited appearances, she has been working closely with her partner to analyze her performances and optimize her physical fitness. Morgan, on the other hand, took a risk by moving to Washington Spirit, but it has paid off, and she has developed significantly since her move to the States.
If Wubben-Moy and Morgan line up together at Wembley, it would be a full-circle moment, given they were first called up in the same camp in 2020.