6 hours ago
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England are confident that captain Leah Williamson will be available for Tuesday’s semi-final clash against Italy.
Williamson was withdrawn in extra time after rolling her ankle while clearing a corner during England’s chaotic 2-2 draw with Sweden – a match Sarina Wiegman’s side eventually won 3-2 on penalties.
The centre-back left the stadium on crutches and wearing a protective boot, and she did not take part in training on Friday.
Despite the setback, her team-mate Esme Morgan delivered a positive update on Saturday when asked about the possibility of stepping in.
‘We are very optimistic that Leah will be available,’ Morgan said. ‘She seemed in very high spirits this morning and I want what’s best for the team and that’s absolutely having our captain on the pitch for us.
‘I’m the same as every single game. Be prepared to play if I’m needed. I’ll know the role, and just be absolutely ready to train at a high level over the next few days. But we’re very optimistic that Leah will be fine.’
England are confident that Leah Williamson will be fit for the semi-final clash against Italy
Williamson was withdrawn against Sweden in extra time after rolling her ankle
The Sweden match proved a bruising affair, leaving much of the squad nursing knocks. Lucy Bronze had her hamstring strapped, while goalkeeper Hannah Hampton required a nose plug after taking an elbow to the face.
Morgan said the squad have been prioritising rest and recovery in the days that have followed.
‘Everyone who played significant minutes had a recovery day to be able to just sort of reset, get moving again. The finishers went to train and had a really intense session.
‘It’s just a case of getting off feet, bringing yourself back down to earth, even mentally, just to have a chilled day to reset after all of the excitement of the night before.
‘And then same again today. Just everyone being able to relax, switch off a little bit, ready to then turn our full focus to the Italy game and be ready to go with full energy into that.’
