Chloe Kelly pulls out of England squad and returns to Arsenal as Lionesses star misses Nations League clashes against Belgium

Kelly has suffered a foot injury and returned to Arsenal for treatment after it was deemed she would not be fit for either game this week. Sarina Wiegman had already ruled her out of the first clash at Ashton Gate on Friday evening but she will now also be absent for the return game in Leuven on Tuesday.

Kelly has suffered a difficult season at club level, leaving Manchester City in acrimonious circumstances to sign for Arsenal on loan in January. That situation has not affected international selection, however, and she featured in both matches against Portugal and Spain in February.

Confirming her withdrawal, the Football Association said: "Chloe Kelly has returned to Arsenal for treatment on a foot injury and will not participate in the forthcoming UEFA Women's Nations League fixtures against Belgium. Yesterday Sarina Wiegman confirmed Kelly's withdrawal from tonight's fixture and following further assessment it has now been decided that she will return to her club to aid her rehabilitation. The Lionesses face the Red Flames at Bristol City's Ashton Gate at 8pm this evening before travelling to Leuven for the return fixture on Tuesday 8 April."

After these matches, England wrap up their Nations League campaign against Portugal and Spain in May and June. They then focus on Euro 2025, where they will be defending their title.