Sarina Wiegman has made a significant decision by excluding Ella Toone and Chloe Kelly from the England squad for the upcoming playoff against Greece. This bold move serves as a clear warning to all players: performance at the club level is crucial for World Cup selection.

Wiegman stated, “The main reason is that I think the levels weren’t what I expect from them on the pitch,” emphasizing her commitment to form over reputation. Despite concerns about Kelly's fitness, Wiegman clarified that her choice was based solely on performance.

With the World Cup approaching in under nine months, Wiegman's decision carries extra weight. England aims to qualify through two playoff rounds, starting with Greece, and hopes to improve on their second-place finish in 2023.

Although fans may find the omission of Toone and Kelly surprising—given their crucial roles in previous tournaments—Wiegman has a history of prioritizing form over sentiment. Notable past decisions include leaving out Steph Houghton and choosing Hannah Hampton over Mary Earps.

Both players face challenges: Toone struggled with team adaptation at Manchester United, while Kelly is managing a hamstring issue as confirmed by her Arsenal coach, Renée Slegers.

Wiegman remains optimistic about their potential, stating, “I still believe in them... We expect a bit more and we know they can bring more.” This message reinforces the competition for World Cup spots.

By giving opportunities to players like Freya Godfrey and Lexi Potter, Wiegman is fostering a competitive environment. Her strategy could ultimately prove to be a masterstroke if Toone and Kelly return to form, making the path to Brazil even more exciting for England fans.