The buildup to this year’s Women’s World Cup could be severely disrupted after the European Club Association (ECA) told the national associations that players will not be available until 10 days before the tournament starts.
The women’s game has been rocked by several high-profile injuries in the past year, including ruptured anterior cruciate ligaments suffered by players such as Vivianne Miedema, Alexia Putellas, Beth Mead and, last week, the England captain, Leah Williamson.
In a statement released on Wednesday the ECA said it will be working with Fifa to ensure that players are not called up before the mandatory release period starts.
The tournament in Australia and New Zealand kicks off on 20 July. England have two preparation camps planned for 19-23 June and 26 June-1 July before flying to Australia on 5 July.