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England's women's football team is on a roll, maintaining a 100% record in their World Cup qualifying group after a win against Spain. While their target is to win a first world title, the journey is long, and several players have enhanced their prospects of selection. Eight players from the recent match against Spain look set to be in the first-choice XI for the World Cup, including Hannah Hampton, Lucy Bronze, and Lauren Hemp. Senior players like Leah Williamson and Ella Toone will also be key when they return from injuries. Three players who started against Spain have significantly boosted their chances. Centre-backs Esme Morgan and Lotte Wubben-Moy were exemplary, helping England keep a clean sheet against the world champions. Morgan, 25, and Wubben-Moy, 27, have had to be patient during Sarina Wiegman's tenure but did not look out of place. Morgan said she was proud of the team's concentration and organisation, while Wiegman praised them, saying, 'They showed up today. It says a lot about them. They should be proud of themselves.' Another player who impressed was Lucia Kendall, the 21-year-old Aston Villa midfielder tasked with taking on Barcelona's Patricia Guijarro. Despite a quiet evening, Kendall worked hard and nearly scored from close range. Wiegman also displayed trust in Laura Blindkilde Brown, who came on as a 72nd-minute substitute to help close out the victory. Her contributions to Manchester City's likely title success will enhance her chances for 2027. The upcoming match against Iceland will provide further opportunities for players like Jess Park, who has been in inspired form for Manchester United. New faces Erica Meg Parkinson and Keira Barry have received their first senior call-ups and will look to make an impression.

England's women's football team has made a surprise call-up for 17-year-old midfielder Erica Meg Parkinson for their World Cup qualifiers against Spain and Iceland in April. Parkinson, who plays for Portuguese side Valadares Gaia, has previously featured in the Lionesses pathway but will now join Sarina Wiegman's senior squad for the first time. The Singapore-born player was chosen due to midfield injuries to Ella Toone and Grace Clinton, with Wiegman describing Parkinson as a 'very dynamic midfielder who likes to go forward … aggressive, technical.' Parkinson was part of the under-23 squad for fixtures against Norway and the United States last year and will now take on a significant step up to the senior level. Wiegman noted that while it's a big leap, Parkinson gets the chance to show her capabilities at the senior level. The 23-player squad also sees the return of Arsenal forward Beth Mead after missing the last set of internationals with a hairline shin fracture. Manchester City's captain Alex Greenwood is back in the squad after sitting out recent games due to injury. The Lionesses face Spain at Wembley on April 14, before taking on Iceland in Reykjavik four days later. This match against Spain will be the first between the nations since the Euro 2025 final, where England became back-to-back European champions under Wiegman's management.

Gio Reyna has expressed his gratitude and determination to repay Mauricio Pochettino's faith in him as the US national team prepares for friendlies against Belgium and Portugal. Reyna's call-up to the team may have come as a surprise to some, given his limited playing time at Borussia Mönchengladbach this season, with only 13 appearances and 26 minutes played since January. Reyna has faced challenges with injuries and attitude concerns, including a perceived lack of effort in training during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. However, Pochettino seems to be making an exception for Reyna, who impressed in the USMNT's November friendlies against Paraguay and Uruguay. Reyna contributed a goal and an assist in those matches, showcasing his talent and potential. “We really know he's a very talented and very special player,” Pochettino said. “To give the possibility, even if he's not playing too much in his club, it can be very useful for us.” Reyna praised Pochettino, saying they have a great relationship and that the coach keeps the team's energy and vibes positive. With the World Cup approaching, Reyna's spot on Pochettino's 26-man roster appears secure. However, his playing time remains uncertain, as he competes with Malik Tillman and Diego Luna for a spot in the lineup. Despite this, Reyna exuded positivity, saying he feels confident and appreciated by the staff, who encourage him to enjoy his game and play with freedom.

James Garner has described this year as a defining moment in his career, and his recent first England call-up is a testament to his hard work. The 25-year-old Everton midfielder could make his international debut in upcoming friendlies against Uruguay and Japan.Garner had a clear goal at the start of the season: to showcase his abilities and prove himself. Despite facing challenges, including serious back injuries and Everton's relegation battles, he has emerged as an integral member of David Moyes's side, who currently sit eighth in the Premier League.His versatility, playing both as a central midfielder and right-back, and his expertise in set-pieces, make him a valuable asset. Garner expressed his satisfaction with the season's progress, stating, “I told myself at the start of the season that this season has to be the season that I can show everyone what I can do and I think so far I have done.”Having previously represented England at youth levels and winning the Under-21 European Championship in 2023, Garner aims to make a significant impact with the senior team. He shared his excitement about the opportunity, mentioning his family's pride, especially his father's, who is a Liverpool supporter.Garner's journey from Manchester United's youth ranks to Everton and now to the England squad highlights his determination and talent. As he prepares for a potential debut, he remains focused on contributing to England's success and hopes to win a trophy with the senior team.