Ella Toone and Chloe Kelly left out of England squad

Manchester United midfielder Ella Toone and Arsenal forward Chloe Kelly have both been left out of England’s squad for next month’s Women’s World Cup qualifying matches.

England manager Sarina Wiegman said the decision came down to what she expects on the pitch: "The main reason is that I think the levels weren't what I expect from them on the pitch". She added that competition is intense and that the call was tough for both players, insisting: "I really believe in them".

Asked about reports linking Kelly’s absence to injury, Wiegman replied that she spoke with Toone and kept it purely football-related: "I had the conversation with Chloe and for me, it was just what I saw on the pitch".

England captain Leah Williamson returns after missing June’s 4-0 defeat to Spain and 3-0 win over Ukraine. The squad also includes a first senior call-up for Chelsea midfielder Lexi Potter and other changes, with England hosting Greece first in Crete on 9 October and then playing in Leicester on 13 October.