Leah Williamson has been named as England’s captain for this summer’s European Championship.
The head coach Sarina Wiegman has chosen the Arsenal defender to lead England’s challenge with Millie Bright selected as the vice-captain. The 25-year-old has been the captain in the absence of the injured Steph Houghton.
Williamson said: “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.”
England are preparing for their World Cup qualifier against North Macedonia on Friday and Northern Ireland next Tuesday.
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.
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“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 Euros this summer.
“She joins a proud list of England captains and will be following in the footsteps of the likes of the first captain Sheila Parker but also her predecessor Steph Houghton who have all been integral for the women’s game.”
Houghton said: “It has been the greatest honour and privilege to captain my country for the last eight years. I have been fortunate to lead the team to three major competition semi-finals and a bronze medal at the 2015 World Cup. Whilst the targets were to win the tournament’s I will always have immense pride in how we played, competed and how much we achieved.
“I would like to thank the previous managers for giving me the opportunity as well as believing and putting their trust in me. For that I will always be grateful. It has been special to captain this generation of players through the move to full-time professionals and their support, belief and togetherness was never taken for granted and it was a pleasure to lead the team.
“The past 12 months have been very difficult from a football perspective in trying to overcome a number of injuries. Sarina and the England staff have been hugely supportive but with the injuries I understand and respect Sarina’s decision to name a new captain.
“The captaincy is being passed on to a very deserving and driven leader in Leah Williamson with all the attributes an England captain needs to be successful, and I have no doubt she will be. I will give my total support to Leah and will be there for her with any help or advice she may need, similarly to that I received from Casey [Stoney] and Faye [White].
“For me, I don’t feel my England story is complete and I continue to work hard with my rehabilitation in trying to make the squad for this summer’s home European Championship. I am available for selection when fit and look forward to putting on an England shirt again. I will be back soon.”