Wiegman drops Kelly & Toone: "Need more"

Sarina Wiegman, the England manager, has excluded prominent players Chloe Kelly and Ella Toone from the upcoming World Cup play-off matches against Greece. The decision, announced on Tuesday, leaves the Lionesses without two regulars who have been integral to recent successes, including their back-to-back European Championship wins.

Wiegman explained that the omission was due to the players not meeting her expected performance standards on the pitch. She confirmed having conversations with both Kelly and Toone, emphasizing the high level of competition within the squad and her belief that they can deliver more.

Kelly has not completed a full 90 minutes for Arsenal this season, while Toone has struggled with form at Manchester United. Wiegman hopes the players will respond positively to the feedback and return stronger. Meanwhile, 20-year-old midfielder Lexi Potter has received her first senior international call-up following strong performances for Chelsea.

The manager also addressed her own contract situation, stating that while she has regular conversations about the future, her immediate focus remains on qualifying for the World Cup through the upcoming play-offs against Greece.