Euro 2025 England optimistic Leah Williamson will face Italy

ZURICH — Esme Morgan is “very optimistic” Lionesses captain Leah Williamson will be available for Tuesday’s Euro 2025 semifinal against Italy.

Williamson turned her ankle in the first half of extra-time in their penalty shootout win over Sweden on Thursday. She tried to play on but was replaced by Niamh Charles after the break.

Williamson captained England to their Euro 2022 triumph and having missed the 2023 World Cup through injury, she’s back skippering the Lions in Switzerland. And Morgan, the England defender, is confident Williamson’s ankle knock will be recovered in time for Tuesday’s match with Italy in Geneva.

“We’re very optimistic that Leah will be available,” Morgan said of Williamson. “She seemed in very high spirits this morning and I want what’s best for the team, and that’s absolutely having our captain on the pitch for us.”

Morgan was a second half substitute in their chaotic win over Sweden. When she came on, England switched to a back three. Morgan says she’ll be ready to be called upon if Williamson pulls up before Tuesday’s match.

“For me it is the same as every single game — be prepared to play if I’m needed, know the role, just be absolutely ready and train at a high level over the next few days. But we’re very optimistic that Leah will be fine.”

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When she came off the bench against Sweden, it was Morgan’s first major tournament minutes. And she’s ready to add to that if given the opportunity against Italy.

“Yeah, I think every training session you’re pushing to be a starting player,” Morgan said. “Obviously those decisions don’t lie with us. I’m always content knowing that I’ve given absolutely everything to be in the best position to make an impact and to do my role to the best of my ability.

“My mindset doesn’t change at all and I will prepare in the same way. To be able to play the other night was such an amazing feeling. It gave me confidence to perform should I be called upon to perform again but that’s not my decision and I’m ready for whatever my role is.”