Houghton, Kirby included as Wiegman announces her provisional England squad for Women’s Euros

Steph Houghton and Fran Kirby are among those included in Sarina Wiegman’s 28-player provisional England squad for this summer’s women’s European Championships.

Man City defender Houghton has been in a race to be fit for the tournament, which starts on July 6. She underwent Achilles surgery in February.

Houghton is part of the initial 28-player group even though she has not played for City since January 23. Sarina Wiegman will cut down her squad to 23 in the second week of June.

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Arsenal midfielder Jordan Nobbs misses out after her season was ended earlier this month by a knee problem, further misfortune for a player who was ruled out of the 2019 World Cup by injury.

City winger Chloe Kelly is part of the 28, returning to the Lionesses set-up after her recent comeback from an ACL injury.

Chelsea’s Fran Kirby, absent from Wiegman’s previous squad due a fatigue-related issue, is back as well, while Jill Scott, who has been on loan at Aston Villa from City, is another included while working on her fitness.

There are also recalls for Manchester United midfielder Lucy Staniforth and Everton goalkeeper Sandy MacIver in a squad captained by Arsenal’s Leah Williamson, who was confirmed as skipper for the Euros – succeeding Houghton – last month.

Some familiar faces named in Sarina Wiegman's provisional #Lionesses squad… pic.twitter.com/4rmlLtlBWd

— Lionesses (@Lionesses) May 17, 2022

Wiegman said in a statement from the Football Association: “The Euros are getting closer, and this is a big step towards the tournament.

“We have a settled squad and I know we have players in our team that will give everything to make it a summer to remember.

“It is important the players have