Leah Williamson named as England Women's captain

 

Williamson was told the news yesterday by head coach Sarina Wiegman on the first full day of the camp at St. George’s Park, with the rest of the squad informed later that evening.

Millie Bright has been appointed the new vice-captain and Ellen White as the third in line. England are preparing for the resumption of FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 qualifiers later this week.

 

The 25 year old had been wearing the armband in the absence of the injured Steph Houghton, who first captained England herself in January 2014 before being confirmed in the role in April that year.

 

Williamson, who led the team to success in the inaugural Arnold Clark Cup last month featuring Spain, Canada and Germany, said: “This is an incredibly proud moment for me and my family and I'm honoured to be asked to lead us at the EUROs.

 

“Steph Houghton is one of this country’s all-time greats and to follow in her footsteps – and all of those special names who have led the team in the past - means so much.

“Although I will be wearing the armband, I know we have a squad full of leaders who share my pride and passion in playing for our country. Whether I'm captain or not, I will never take anything for granted and will always do my best for England every time I pull on the shirt.”

 

England are preparing for the forthcoming away FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers against North Macedonia on Friday 8 April (7pm kick-off BST) and Northern Ireland on Tuesday 12 April (7.55pm kick-off BST).

 

Houghton has not played for England since February 2021 and is working hard on her return from an Achilles injury in a bid to be fit for this summer’s finals.

 

Wiegman said: “This decision gives us continuity at this important final period as we build towards the tournament. It is important we give everyone clarity at this stage.
"Leah has been a great leader for us and I know she will continue to set the example we need in her work on and off the pitch. While I know this is significant news for our fans, for me the most important thing is that we work hard in training and perform to the best we can in our matches. The main thing is we are ready for our World Cup qualifiers and then the EURO this summer. 

 

“She joins a proud list of England captains and will be following in the footsteps of the likes of the first captain Sheila Parker all the way through to Steph who have all been integral for the women’s game.”