Millie Bright returns to England's squad for European Championship qualifiers

This is the first time Wegman has not been able to select Daly, and the England coach admitted she “really misses her” after her surprise retirement in April.

“Rachel and I had many conversations before she made the decision. She is a wonderful person and a lot of fun to work with,” Wegman said.

“This is the reality now and we have to move on. It's weird not having her in the team. I think it's touching that she said: 'Okay, this is where it ends for me now.'

Bright's return is a huge boost for Wegman as she will be able to select her first choice at centre-back – Leah Williamson and Bright – for the first time since February 2023.

“It feels like a long time. I'm so happy, she's so happy. I'm starting to play again after a long period of injury and rehab,” Wegman said.

“It's a big boost. That's what.” [Bright] It has been working for. We were all hoping she would come back early but she needed more time and we are glad she can come back now.

England currently occupies second place in its qualifying group, two points behind France, after drawing with Sweden and defeating the Republic of Ireland last month.

“After an intense season, we wanted to give the players clarity and help them prepare in the best way possible, with the balance of performance and wellbeing as a priority,” Wegman said of naming the squad for the upcoming two international spells.

“We have had good conversations with the clubs and are grateful for their cooperation and support in helping the players to be active, fit and ready for two international matches at the highest level.”

In addition to finding physical balance, Wegman says they can learn ways to cope with mental stress, as she spoke at Mental Health Awareness Week.

Asked if she had a message for people who might be struggling, Wegman told BBC Radio 5 Live: “Don't keep it to yourself. People don't see when people are struggling mentally.”

“You can see when someone breaks their legs, it's pretty obvious, but these [mental] Things are not clear. If you're struggling, find help.

“Talk to people who can provide support, who have the knowledge and experience around that. When we link that to sport, you can train on how to deal with things. But I would say get the support that's there.”

Goalkeepers: Mary Earps, Hannah Hampton, Chiara Keating

Defenders: Millie Bright, Lucy Bronze, Jess Carter, Niamh Charles, Alex Greenwood, Esme Morgan, Millie Turner, Leah Williamson, Lottie Whoopin Moy

Midfielders: Grace Clinton, Fran Kirby, Jess Park, Georgia Stanway, Ella Toone, Keira Walsh

straight ahead: Aggie Beaver-Jones, Lauren Hemp, Lauren James, Chloe Kelly, Beth Mead, Alessia Russo

comment: Kayla Rendell, Maya Le Tissier, Missy Bo Cairns, Jess Naz