England’s Leah Williamson will not be able to play in the World Cup qualifiers in Spain

England captain Leah Williamson has been ruled out of the Women’s World Cup qualifiers against Spain and Ukraine.

The Arsenal defender, 29, will be sidelined with a hamstring injury, although he has followed a rehabilitation program expected to enable him to play.

Sarina Wiegmann’s side can qualify for next year’s World Cup in Brazil if they avoid defeat by Spain on Friday (20:00 BST).

They top their group with four wins from four matches and have a three-point advantage over world champions Spain.

England take on Ukraine at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium on Tuesday, June 9 (20:00 BST).

Williamson, who led England to European Championship wins in 2022 and 2025, has started just two Women’s Super League games this season.

He underwent knee surgery after England won Euro 2025 and has since played just three matches for his country.

Liverpool captain Grace Fisk has been called up to replace Williamson, while Brighton goalkeeper Sophie Baggalio has joined the Lionesses.

Baggally will provide cover as Manchester City’s Khira Keating will miss the Spain game as he follows the return-to-play concussion protocol.

Keating missed Sunday’s FA Cup final win over Brighton, with Bagall on the bench for the opposition.

Further assessment will determine whether Keating can be available for the Ukraine game, although regular number one Hannah Hampton is expected to start.

The team arrives at St George’s Park on Monday before traveling to Spain at the end of the week.