Manchester United midfielder Ella Toone has been added to the England squad for their upcoming World Cup play-off matches against Greece. The 27-year-old was initially left out of the 23-player roster announced last week by head coach Sarina Wiegman but has been called up following a minor injury to defender Lucy Bronze. Bronze, who represents Chelsea, sustained the injury during her team’s 3-0 victory over West Ham and has returned to her club for further evaluation.

Toone’s omission from the squad alongside fellow regular Chloe Kelly had draw attention, with Wiegman expressing that both players did not meet the expected performance levels in recent matches. At the initial squad announcement held at St George’s Park, Wiegman emphasized the competitive nature of team selection and conveyed her belief in the potential of both Toone and Kelly, noting she hoped they would respond positively to the feedback and demonstrate their capabilities moving forward.

This season, Toone has made limited appearances for Manchester United under new head coach Eva Olid, having completed a full 90 minutes only once. Despite her reduced playing time, she is now poised to join the England squad as they prepare for the crucial play-off encounters.

England’s first leg will be held at the Pankritio Stadium in Greece, followed by the second leg at Leicester’s King Power Stadium on Tuesday. The outcomes of these matches will determine England’s place in the upcoming Women’s World Cup tournament.