Beth Mead is expected to miss the World Cup with England due to an ACL injury sustained in November with England’s manager, Sarina Wiegman, stating that unless a “miracle happens,” Mead would not be in her plans for the World Cup.

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 27: Beth Mead of Arsenal looks on during the UEFA Women's Champions League group C match between Arsenal and FC Zürich at Emirates Stadium on October 27, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 27: Beth Mead of Arsenal looks on during the UEFA Women’s Champions League group C match between Arsenal and FC Zürich at Emirates Stadium on October 27, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Sarina Wiegman has named a 25-player squad for next month’s friendlies against Brazil and Australia, the last camp before England’s final preparations for the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Despite the injury, the door remains open for Mead if her recovery goes well, but at the moment, she is not expected to participate.

“I had a conversation with her, she’s doing well, she’s in her rehab, she’s doing good, but the World Cup is actually too early,” Wiegman told assembled reporters at a press conference.

“So what we said is she’s not in our plans now, just really take the time to get back well. “If a miracle happens and she goes so fast, then we will reconsider it – but at this moment I don’t expect that.”

There is also concern for Fran Kirby, who has a knee injury. Wiegman hopes she will recover and return to playing soon. Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, Lucy Parker, and Esme Morgan have been recalled to the squad, while Arsenal’s Lotte Wubben-Moy drops out.