Arsenal’s Leah Williamson has been confirmed as the England captain for the 2022 UEFA Women’s Euros.

Tokyo Olympics 2020 Team GB and Arsenal's Leah Williamson during the Team GB Tokyo 2020 Women s Football Team Announcement at the Botanical Gardens, Birmingham. Picture date: Thursday May 27, 2021. Copyright: Zac Goodwin
Tokyo Olympics 2020 Team GB and Arsenal’s Leah Williamson during the Team GB Tokyo 2020 Women s Football Team Announcement at the Botanical Gardens, Birmingham. Picture date: Thursday May 27, 2021. Copyright: Zac Goodwin

According to an FA press release, Leah Williamson was told the news on Monday by head coach Sarina Wiegman during the first full day of the camp at St. George’s Park.

The rest of the squad informed later that evening.

Millie Bright will be the new vice-captain with Ellen White third in line, should anything happen to the other two.

The women’s game is currently in an international break, with England preparing to play FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 qualifiers later this week.

Williamson, 25, has worn the armband in the absence of the injured Steph Houghton.

The key Arsenal defender, who led the team to success in the inaugural Arnold Clark Cup last month featuring Spain, Canada and Germany, said: “This is an incredibly proud moment for me and my family and I am honoured to be asked to lead us at the Euros.

“Steph Houghton is one of this country’s all-time greats and to follow in her footsteps – and all of those special names who have led the team in the past – means so much.

“Although I will be wearing the armband, I know we have a squad full of leaders who share my pride and passion in playing for our country. Whether I am captain or not, I will never take anything for granted and will always do my best for England every time I pull on the shirt.”

Wiegman said: “This decision gives us continuity at this important final period as we build towards the tournament. It is important we give everyone clarity at this stage.

“Leah has been a great leader for us and I know she will continue to set the example we need in her work on and off the pitch.

“While I know this is significant news for our fans, for me the most important thing is that we work hard in training and perform to the best we can in our matches as a team. The main thing is we are ready for our World Cup qualifiers and then the EURO this summer.“

England are face North Macedonia on Friday 8 April (7pm kick-off BST) and Northern Ireland on Tuesday 12 April (7.55pm kick-off BST).