Ella Toone has emerged from a challenging four-month recovery period, stating she learned a "massive lesson" from her recent hip injury. The Manchester United midfielder is now set to contribute to the national team as England prepares for a crucial match against Spain on Friday in Mallorca at 20:00 BST.

Toone's injury, described as a "complicated" hip stress fracture, stemmed from overuse, sidelining her for significant parts of the season, including key Women's World Cup qualifying matches in March and April. Despite her absence, she made a notable return for the last three games of the Women's Super League, where United finished as runners-up to Chelsea.

Reflecting on her time away from the pitch, Toone expressed:

It's been a long time. I've driven my family up the wall with not being able to play. I knew I had to keep working hard and get myself in the best place possible to be ready for this camp. I'm buzzing to be back.

Toone acknowledged the importance of self-care moving forward, stating:

I think I've learned I'm not 18 any more and my body has been through a lot. There was a massive lesson in this injury and it was to make sure I look after myself.

Her commitment to fitness during recovery included swimming and using upcoming matches as motivation. The Lionesses aim to secure a spot in next year's World Cup in Brazil, needing only to avoid defeat against the reigning world champions.

As Toone looks ahead, she emphasizes the need for better body management:

I've definitely learned this time around that I have to look after my body much better than I have been doing in previous years. I want to prolong my career as much as I can.

With her return, Toone is ready to make a significant impact for England and is eager to contribute to their World Cup qualification journey.