Grace Fisk Out with Calf Injury as England Readies for Ghana

Grace Fisk's calf injury compounds England's defensive absences ahead of the final friendly of the year against Ghana. The Lionesses host the West African side at St Mary's Stadium in Southampton, aiming to end the year with a positive result.

Fisk, 27, was named in manager Sarina Wiegman's squad for the first time after being called into the England pool in October when Katie Reid withdrew. An international cap (an appearance for the national team) would have been Fisk's first, but the injury rules her out of Tuesday's match.

Wiegman described the situation as disappointing but highlighted that Fisk had the chance to train with the team and gain valuable experience at this level.

Fisk is not the only defender missing. England are already without several central players: captain Leah Williamson is recovering from a knee injury sustained at Euro 2025, while Arsenal youngster Reid has suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury last month. Manchester City's Alex Greenwood is also sidelined, and Jess Carter has been rested after Gotham FC's National Women's Soccer League final victory.

With Fisk out, Manchester United captain Maya Le Tissier could line up alongside Washington Spirit's Esme Morgan or Arsenal's Lotte Wubben-Moy.

All three players featured in the 8-0 win over China in the last friendly, illustrating England's depth as they prepare for the 2027 World Cup qualifying campaign.

It's good to have that challenge

England have faced teams from four continents in their final international windows of the year as they prepare for the 2027 Women's World Cup. While celebrating their Euro title, the Lionesses have used these games to test different opponents and line-ups.

Ghana, ranked far lower in FIFA's rankings, will offer a different test. There are 63 places separating the teams in the world standings. Wiegman expects Ghana to present a mix of possession play and direct play, with speed and physicality, which England will need to disrupt to control the game.

The match, expected to attract a 24,000 crowd at St Mary's Stadium in Southampton, could also help raise interest in women's football across Africa, including in Ghana. Wiegman noted the game's growth is rapid in both England and Africa, and the sport needs more momentum on the continent.

The head coach added that the clash could also provide useful exposure for the players ahead of future assignments.

England's lineup choices in this match could shape preparations for the next steps in their campaign.

Expert comment: Analysts say the extended defensive list underscores England's need for versatile options, and the match offers a valuable stage for fringe players to push for a spot in the World Cup squad.

In summary, Fisk's injury complicates England's defensive plans, but it also creates opportunities for other players to shine on a big stage. The Lionesses remain favorites, yet they must adapt to Ghana's pace and style. The game also serves as a platform to raise the profile of women's football, particularly in Africa.

Key insight: With Fisk sidelined, England's defense tests depth and readiness for future tournaments, while Ghana seeks to upset expectations on a global stage. BBC Sport