Ella Toone, Chloe Kelly and the Lionesses regulars who must use international break disappointment as World Cup wake-up calls or risk missing out on England’s summer squad

And so the conversation goes back to form. In that sense, Toone feels much closer to a return to the squad, not just because she was called in as the first injury replacement or because of the praise given to her by Wiegman for her response to such disappointment.

Toone was an unused substitute in Manchester United’s 1-1 draw at Arsenal in September, with new head coach Eva Olid favouring a more defensive approach after a rough start to the season. However, the 27-year-old has been regularly involved since, and that United are improving bodes well, especially with Toone a key starter. “We can work together to help her be there again,” Olid said in response to the midfielder’s initial omission from Wiegman’s plans, and the path back feels quite clear for her.

For Clinton, however, there is more room for doubt. Since swapping the red of Manchester United for the blue of Man City in the summer of 2025, she has struggled with niggles, an inability to grasp opportunities when fit and high competition for places in the Cityzens’ team. Finding a way into the line-up has to come first, with her only start so far this season coming in the league win over Charlton Athletic.

City head coach Andree Jeglertz expressed real belief in Clinton in the summer and excitement over what her second season at the club will look like. “I trust a lot in her,” he told GOAL. “But we need consistency from her.” She needs it from herself, too, if she is to be on that plane to Brazil next summer, presuming England secure qualification against Ukraine in December.