England named 17-year-old Erica Meg Parkinson to its latest squad, handing the midfielder a surprise call-up for upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Spain and Iceland.
Parkinson plays for Portuguese top-flight side Valadares Gaia and has previously been involved in England’s youth teams. She joins the senior group as manager Sarina Wiegman looks to reshape the midfield, with Grace Clinton, Ella Toone, and Aggie Beever-Jones all sidelined with injuries.
Beth Mead, meanwhile, is set to return after missing England’s last two World Cup qualifying wins over Ukraine and Iceland.
According to Wiegman, Parkinson earned the opportunity.
“She’s a very dynamic attacking midfielder and wants to go forward,” said the fifth-year Lionesses coach. “She’s very aggressive and pretty technical.”
Wiegman added that the teenager is not expected to move straight into the starting lineup.
“It’s a learning thing for her, but I do hope she can adapt quickly to the level that’s needed in our senior environment,” she said.
This month’s roster also included captain Leah Williamson despite a recent hamstring issue. Wiegman specified the Arsenal defender “had some small setbacks,” but is progressing well.
When Is the 2027 Women's World Cup?
The 32-team Women’s World Cup kicks off on June 24th, 2027 in Brazil.
The Lionesses currently sit atop Group A3 after tallying wins over Ukraine (6-1) and Iceland (2-0).
