Sarina Wiegman insists Jess Carter is ready to play for England in Euro 2025 semi-final against Italy after vile racist abuse online

Following England's penalty shootout win over Sweden last week, defender Carter said she had experienced "a lot of racial abuse" during the tournament in Switzerland. Now, Wiegman has backed the 27-year-old to be ready for their last four clash with Italy on Tuesday, while admitting this turn of events have been "sad" and "disgusting".

She told reporters: "She´s ready to perform and to compete. That says also a lot about her and about the team. Of course, it´s really sad that we have to be occupied by this. It´s ridiculous, it´s disgusting what´s happening and that goes beyond football."

Following this revelation, the Football Association said it was "working with police" to ensure those responsible for this "hate crime are brought to justice". Incidentally, defending champions England are trying to reach back-to-back Euros finals when they face Italy this week.

England take on Italy on Tuesday night, and reigning World Cup champions Spain lock horns with Germany in the second semi-final a day later. It remains to be seen if Carter will start in this upcoming Lionesses contest.