Toone and Kelly Left Out of Lionesses Squad for World Cup Qualifiers

Ella Toone will not feature for England this month after missing out on the Lionesses squad for their upcoming Women's World Cup qualifying matches. Chloe Kelly has also been left out.

The Manchester United midfielder has been one of England's most recognisable creative players in recent years, so her absence will be noted, particularly with qualification games where the team is expected to control possession and turn dominance into goals.

Toone's omission is a notable one given her track record at international level. She has long been a regular in England's attacking midfield and has delivered in big moments for the national side. Being left out of a qualifying window suggests the coaching staff want to look at different combinations, or that they see other players as better suited to the current plans.

Kelly's exclusion adds to the sense of a squad in transition. Known for her pace, directness and ability to change a game from the wing, she has often been a useful option off the bench and as a starter. Her absence removes one of England's most direct attacking threats from the group.

For both players, the immediate task is clear. Strong club form is the most reliable route back into the squad, and with plenty of domestic fixtures ahead, there will be chances to make the case for a recall before the next international window.

For England, the qualifiers are a chance to test depth and give minutes to players who might otherwise wait for opportunities. Squad selection in this phase often carries as much weight as results, because places on the plane for a major tournament are shaped by how players perform when given their chance.

Fans will now watch closely to see who steps into the roles vacated by Toone and Kelly, and whether the change in personnel alters the way England approach these matches.