Ella Toone and Chloe Kelly miss out on latest Lionesses squad

Manchester United midfielder Ella Toone and Arsenal forward Chloe Kelly have not been selected for England’s World Cup qualifying matches next month.

Toone, 27, misses out after an inconsistent start to the season, while 28-year-old Kelly has also been omitted.

In addition, Chelsea forward Aggie Beever-Jones and Arsenal duo Lotte Wubben-Moy and Taylor Hinds have not made the 23-player squad.

Captain Leah Williamson returns having missed June’s 4-0 defeat by Spain and 3-0 win over Ukraine.

Asked about Toone and Kelly, England manager Sarina Wiegman said: “The main reason is that I think the levels weren’t what I expect from them on the pitch.

“There is big competition going on and that is basically what it is. Of course, it has been a very hard decision for both of them.

“I really believe in them. We expect a bit more and we know they can bring more. That was the message – I’m convinced they can be better.

“I hope they respond really well. Where needed, we will support them too. I hope they can come back even better than they were before.”

On reports suggesting Kelly’s absence may have been linked to an injury, Wiegman added: “I had the conversation with Chloe and for me, it was just what I saw on the pitch. I kept that with football with her.”