Why is Leah Williamson not playing at the World Cup? Arsenal star watching England from the sidelines

Arsenal star Leah Williamson is the major absentee from England’s squad for their pursuit of World Cup glory this summer.

Williamson has enjoyed an incredible tenure as Lioness captain, lifting both the Euros and the Women’s Finalissima in the past year.

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The 26-year-old only took over the armband permanently in April 2022 following Steph Houghton’s long-term injury issues.

Williamson’s first tournament as England captain saw her lead her side to victory to end the country’s wait for a senior trophy.

But the Arsenal defender was not named in Sarina Wiegman’s 23-woman squad for the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Why is Williamson not at the World Cup?

Williamson is currently out injured having ruptured an anterior cruciate ligament in April.

She limped out of the Gunners’ 1-0 defeat to Manchester United in the Women’s Super League and had to undergo knee surgery.

In her absence, Williamson’s centre-back partner Millie Bright will take over England captaincy duties at the World Cup.

Williamson is one of three high-profile England players missing through injury alongside Beth Mead and Fran Kirby.

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Williamson has confirmed she will be making the trip to Australia to watch the Lionesses despite nursing her injury.

“I’m a believer so I’ll hold onto that,” the defender told Sky Sports News. “The girls have got as good a chance as anyone.

“I can’t wait to watch them and I’m so proud of them already. I’ll be out there with my brother so it’s a nice opportunity to soak it up and do it on the other side of the fence for a little bit.”

On her recovery, Williamson added: “It is going well. Really well actually.

“It’s an annoying injury because it’s so slow but I’m doing really well.”