Teen Midfielder Gets Shock Lionesses Call-Up

England manager Sarina Wiegman has called up 17-year-old Erica Parkinson for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, a maiden call-up that left the teenager speechless. Parkinson, born in Singapore, currently plays for Portuguese side Valadares Gaia. Her inclusion in the squad to face Spain and Iceland comes as midfield depth is tested due to injuries to Grace Clinton and Ella Toone.

Wiegman acknowledged Parkinson's step up from the under-23s and Portuguese league to the senior international level. While not expecting her to start immediately, Wiegman hopes Parkinson will seize the camp as a valuable learning experience. The coach described Parkinson as a dynamic, aggressive, and technical midfielder.

Captain Leah Williamson has also been included in the 23-player squad despite a recent hamstring injury that kept her out of Arsenal's last three matches. Wiegman expressed confidence that Williamson will be fit for the upcoming fixtures, noting the careful management of her return from a previous setback.

Separately, Wiegman commented on FIFA's new regulations requiring female head coaches or assistants in women's tournaments, stating it will accelerate gender balance in the sport.