Steph Houghton has been struggling with injury.
(Picture: The FA via Getty Images)Steph Houghton has been left out of the England Women squad for this summer’s home Euros.
The former Lionesses skipper was one of five players axed by head coach Sarina Wiegman, who announced her 23-women squad for the tournament on Wednesday evening.
Lucy Staniforth, who like Houghton has just returned from injury, along with Sandy MacIver, Niamh Charles and Katie Zelem have also been cut from the initial group of 28 that was named during the middle of May.
Houghton’s exclusion comes after a difficult season for the 34-year-old where an Achilles injury has continued to plague her. Her last appearance came back in January and, despite working hard to get fit, Houghton has been left out.
Fran Kirby had been another fitness concern as she has been out since February with a fatigue-like illness, but she has made the cut.
England, who are hosting the Euros, are in Group A with Austria - their opening opponents on July 6 - Norway and Northern Ireland.
All of us.
— Lionesses (@Lionesses) June 15, 2022
All together.
Our England.
Your official #Lionesses squad announcement for #WEURO2022... pic.twitter.com/AN45Dytirt
The Lionesses will be led by captain Leah Williamson and supported by vice-captains Millie Bright and Ellen White.
England have experience in their squad, particularly in the shape of Jill Scott (who has over 150 caps), but nine players will also be playing in their first tournament this summer. They included Arsenal’s Lotte Wubben-Moy and Chelsea’s Jess Carter.
Wiegman said: “I am excited by what is possible for this group. We all know this is a huge opportunity and it is one we have to grab with both hands. The chance to represent the nation on such a big stage on home soil is one to relish. This group so far has proven they are prepared to give it all they have in every training session, in every meeting and in every game.
“Making the final selection is always difficult because we know the talent and commitment of every single player. All 28 players have all been superb on and off the pitch, since I started. I am certain those we have had to disappoint will give everything to support us and be ready if called upon.
“Of course, we hope to avoid any setbacks before we start against Austria but we know where we can turn in case we need a replacement. Togetherness is a big part of what we are all about and from every player in the squad to my superb support team, and with the strong backing of everyone at The FA and our fans, we are committed to make it a summer to remember.”
England Women’s Euro 2022 squad in full
Goalkeepers: Mary Earps (Manchester United), Hannah Hampton (Aston Villa), Ellie Roebuck (Manchester City)
Defenders: Millie Bright (Chelsea), Lucy Bronze (Manchester City), Jess Carter (Chelsea), Rachel Daly (Houston Dash), Alex Greenwood (Manchester City), Demi Stokes (Manchester City), Lotte Wubben-Moy (Arsenal)
Midfielders: Fran Kirby (Chelsea), Jill Scott (Aston Villa), Georgia Stanway (Bayern Munich), Ella Toone (Manchester United), Keira Walsh (Manchester City), Leah Williamson (Arsenal)
Forwards: Beth England (Chelsea), Lauren Hemp (Manchester City), Chloe Kelly (Manchester City), Beth Mead (Arsenal), Nikita Parris (Arsenal), Alessia Russo (Manchester United), Ellen White (Manchester City)
