Greece v England Women's World Cup Playoff: Ella Toone Recall 2026

Greece v England Women's World Cup playoff semi-final first leg takes place in Heraklion, Crete, with Ella Toone recalled to the squad after Lucy Bronze's injury. Sarina Wiegman's side begins their quest for a place in the 2027 Women's World Cup, and the England manager has turned to the experienced Manchester United midfielder to fill the void left by Bronze's withdrawal.

Greece v England Women's World Cup Playoff: Key Squad Changes

England's preparations for the Women's World Cup playoff against Greece were disrupted when right-back Lucy Bronze sustained a "really small" injury, as described by Wiegman. Bronze returned to Chelsea for treatment, prompting Wiegman to call up Ella Toone, who had been originally left out of the squad. Toone, who was training in Spain during the international window, quickly joined the team in Greece.

Toone's recall comes after Wiegman publicly stated that both Toone and Chloe Kelly were omitted because "the levels weren't what I expect from them on the pitch." However, Toone's response to the setback has impressed the England manager. "She took that straight away. Of course [she was] very disappointed, but the first thing she did [was say]: 'OK, I'm going to get back, I'm going to do that,'" Wiegman said.

Ella Toone's Resilience and Impact

Ella Toone has 69 caps and 24 goals for England, including crucial strikes in the Euro 2022 final and the 2023 World Cup semi-final. Her ability to bounce back from disappointment is a testament to her mental strength. After starting Manchester United's victory over Liverpool on Saturday, Toone told the BBC: "It's about me now. I've got to keep working hard and use it as fuel to come back even better."

Wiegman praised Toone's positive reaction, saying, "Yes, very much. I think when I gave her the call, of course that was a hard call. But she took that straight away." Toone's return adds creativity and goal-scoring threat to England's midfield for the crucial playoff fixture.

Greece v England: Match Preview and Tactical Analysis

The first leg in Heraklion is a critical step for England's World Cup qualification hopes. Greece will provide a stern test, especially at home. England will rely on their experienced players to navigate a potentially tricky away fixture. The return of Toone gives Wiegman options in attacking midfield, where her link-up play with the forwards will be vital.

Without Bronze, England's defense may need reshuffling. Wiegman could deploy a back four with alternative full-backs, but the team's overall strength should compensate. The midfield battle will be key, with Toone likely to start alongside Georgia Stanway and Keira Walsh.

Player Comparison: Ella Toone vs. Chloe Kelly

Both players have had significant moments for England, but Toone's experience and recent form earned her the recall. Kelly remains on standby.

Key Takeaways for England's World Cup Playoff

• Ella Toone's recall bolsters England's midfield after Lucy Bronze's injury.
• Sarina Wiegman's squad management emphasizes resilience and response to setbacks.
• Away goal in Greece could be crucial for the second leg at Wembley.
• Toone's mental strength sets an example for the squad.
• England's depth will be tested in a hostile environment.

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