Sarina Wiegman reveals why Jess Carter is left OUT of England semi-final after suffering 'disgusting and vile' racist abuse

England head coach Sarina Wiegman has offered an explanation for leaving defender Jess Carter out of the starting XI for tonight's Euro 2025 semi-final against Italy.

Wiegman cited tactical decisions rather than the racist abuse the player said she has endured during the tournament.

In Carter’s place, Wiegman has opted to start Esme Morgan at centre-back. The boss said: 'Yes, that decision is based on the tactical challenges we have and we think in this game it is best to put Esme in.'

When asked how Carter is coping, Wiegman replied: 'Jess is good. Of course a lot of things going on but she is good, she trained well, she's ready to compete and ready to play.

'It is a huge night for everyone, Esme is ready and has been ready for a while, she showed that the other night and I hope she does really well of course.'