Arsenal defender Taylor Hinds has been forced to withdraw from the England women's squad after sustaining an ankle injury last week, leaving the coaching staff with a defensive headache ahead of two critical World Cup qualifying fixtures.

Hinds will return to her club to undergo further assessment and treatment, with the nature and timeline of the injury yet to be confirmed. The rest of the England squad remain at St. George's Park, where preparations are continuing for what promises to be a pivotal few days in the qualification campaign.

Spain first, then Ukraine

England face Spain on Friday at the Estadi Mallorca Son Moix — a tie that carries enormous weight. Avoid defeat and England will seal their place at the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil, a tournament that will expand to 32 teams and run from 24 June to 25 July next summer.

It is the kind of occasion that demands a fully fit squad, which makes Hinds' withdrawal all the more frustrating from an England perspective. Spain are among the strongest sides in world football and the match is unlikely to be straightforward, regardless of England's recent form.

Should the team come through Friday unscathed — in terms of both result and fitness — attention immediately turns to the second qualifier. England return home to face Ukraine at Everton's Hill Dickinson Stadium on 9 June, a fixture that could serve as either a confirmation party or a chance to wrap up the remaining qualifying business.

A blow, but not a crisis

Hinds is an experienced operator at left-back and her absence will be felt, particularly given the attacking threat Spain are capable of producing down the flanks. That said, England's squad depth in defence has grown considerably in recent years, and the management team will have options to consider.

The timing is unfortunate but not unfamiliar. International windows often expose the physical toll of a long domestic season, and injuries at this stage of the calendar are an occupational hazard for any squad. The priority now will be ensuring Hinds returns to full fitness in good time, both for Arsenal's pre-season preparations and for England's continued campaign.

With a place in Brazil within touching distance, England can ill afford unnecessary distractions. The squad at St. George's Park will be focused on the job at hand — and that starts with Spain on Friday evening.

What is at stake

A point against Spain in Mallorca would be enough to book England's ticket to the 2027 Women's World Cup. It is a significant milestone and one the squad will be desperate to secure, particularly given the momentum the women's game in this country continues to build. Qualification would also give the management team the breathing space to plan properly for a 32-team tournament that represents one of the most ambitious editions of the competition in its history.

For Hinds personally, the hope will be that her ankle responds quickly to treatment. Missing matches of this magnitude is never easy, but keeping the long-term picture in mind will be equally important as the season draws to a close.

Frequently asked

Why has Taylor Hinds withdrawn from the England squad?
Taylor Hinds has pulled out of the England women's squad due to an ankle injury sustained last week. She has returned to Arsenal for further assessment and treatment.
When do England play Spain in the Women's World Cup qualifier?
England face Spain on Friday at the Estadi Mallorca Son Moix. A draw or a win would be enough for England to qualify for the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil.
Where is England's home qualifier against Ukraine being played?
England will host Ukraine at Everton's Hill Dickinson Stadium on 9 June. The match follows the away qualifier against Spain in Mallorca.