Grace Fisk’s Injury Strikes England’s Defense Ahead of Ghana Friendly

Grace Fisk, the Liverpool captain, has unfortunately compounded England’s already limited defensive lineup for their final friendly match of the year against Ghana, having sustained a calf injury during training.

The 27-year-old defender was included in manager Sarina Wiegman’s original squad for the first time, following her call-up to the Lionesses during the October window due to Katie Reid’s withdrawal. This injury prevents Fisk from earning her first cap in the upcoming match at St Mary’s Stadium, scheduled for Tuesday at 19:00 GMT.

“She was really enjoying the experience and adapting well to the step up. It’s disappointing for her to pick up this minor injury,” Wiegman commented. “Nevertheless, she had the chance to train with us, and we remain hopeful that she recovers quickly to be available for Liverpool soon.”

Fisk’s injury adds to Wiegman’s defensive woes, as several other center-backs are already unavailable. Captain Leah Williamson is still recuperating from a knee injury sustained at Euro 2025, while Arsenal’s young talent, Katie Reid, withdrew from last month’s friendlies due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury. Additionally, Manchester City’s Alex Greenwood is also sidelined, and Jess Carter was rested after her team’s recent triumph in the National Women’s Soccer League Championship.

As a result, Manchester United’s captain, Maya Le Tissier, is poised to start her fourth consecutive match for England, possibly alongside either Esme Morgan from Washington Spirit or Lotte Wubben-Moy from Arsenal. All three defenders contributed to England’s impressive 8-0 victory over China on Saturday.

England’s recent international windows have seen them compete against teams from four different continents, as they prepare for the qualification process for the 2027 Women’s World Cup next year. While celebrating their Euros victory as part of a four-match ‘homecoming’ series, they also aim to face a diverse range of opposition.

This match against Ghana marks the first encounter between the two nations, with England ranked 63 places higher in FIFA’s global standings. Given their dominant performance against China, the Lionesses are expected to be strong favorites, although Wiegman seeks a genuine challenge from Ghana.

“We aim for competitive matches, particularly when facing African nations known for their distinct playing styles, characterized by speed and physicality,” Wiegman noted during an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live. “Ghana has a well-defined approach, balancing possession play with direct attacks. We intend to apply pressure and prevent them from finding their rhythm. Such challenges are vital as we progress.”

Wiegman also expressed hopes that the match, set to take place in front of a 24,000-strong crowd at St Mary’s Stadium in Southampton, would enhance interest in women’s football in Africa, thereby increasing visibility for the sport.

“The women’s game continues to expand rapidly, especially in England where we are at the forefront of this growth,” she remarked. “I view this match as an opportunity for greater exposure, and I genuinely hope it garners significant attention in Africa, particularly in Ghana. The growth in African football is promising, but I wish it would accelerate even further.”