England manager Sarina Wiegman has addressed Beth Mead's hopes of making the World Cup squad this summer as the Arsenal star continues to work her way back from an ACL injury.
The 27-year-old has been sidelined since November and she faced a race against time to be fit for this summer's tournament. Wiegman gave an honest response when asked whether Mead could return before they jet off to Australia, admitting she's currently not in their plans and just needs to focus on her recovery.
"I've had conversations with her and she's doing well," the England manager told the media on Tuesday. "In her rehab, she's doing good. But the World Cup is actually too early.
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"What we've said is she's not in our plans now, she just needs to take the time to get back well. But, if a miracle happens and she goes so fast, then we will reconsider it. At this moment, I don't expect that."
Mead was the golden boot winner at the Euros last summer when the Lionesses made history and won the competition for the first time. She's since received a Ballon d'Or nomination and was named the BBC's Sports Personality of the Year in 2022.
However, at this stage, it seems unlikely she'll be fit to return for the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand in just a few months' time. The recent squad announcement for the April internationals will provide Wiegman with another opportunity to take a look at players before she makes the final decision.
England will take on Brazil and World Cup co-hosts Australia next month as they continue their preparations. Just one Arsenal player was named in the squad as Lionesses captain Leah Williamson kept her place.
Gunners defender Lotte Wubben-Moy missed out, with plenty of competition for places at centre-half. Instead, Williamson will be joined by Millie Bright, Esme Morgan, Maya Le Tissier, Lucy Parker and Alex Greenwood.
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