Key Players Return to England Squad Boosts Euro Championship Hopes

Alex Greenwood, Georgia Stanway, and Lauren Hemp return to the England squad for Nations League matches against Portugal and Spain, strengthening the team as the European Championship approaches. Chelsea's Lauren James remains injured. Wins in May and June could secure England a place in the Nations League knockout phase.

Key England players Alex Greenwood, Georgia Stanway, and Lauren Hemp have rejoined the national squad ahead of vital Nations League fixtures against Portugal and Spain. The return of these players is a timely boost for the Lionesses, who are in the final stages of preparation for the European Championship, just seven weeks away.

However, the squad suffers a setback with Chelsea forward Lauren James sidelined due to a hamstring injury. Manager Sarina Wiegman acknowledges the challenges posed by the upcoming matches, especially as Greenwood and Stanway have recently recovered from knee surgeries, while Hemp returns after a five-month break following a knee injury.

Upcoming matches against Portugal and Spain are crucial, with victory securing England's place in the Nations League knockout phase starting in October. Wiegman emphasizes the importance of preparing thoroughly against these seasoned opponents that England faced earlier this year, ahead of their Euro bid commencing on July 5.

(With inputs from agencies.)