How Wubben-Moy has stepped into Williamson's shoes

England defender Lotte Wubben-Moy took her chance when she was handed a rare start in Tuesday's victory over Spain.

With Arsenal team-mate Leah Williamson missing through injury, Wubben-Moy impressed alongside centre-back partner Esme Morgan as England kept a clean sheet.

"I'm very proud of them. They were ready. They haven't played that much together, but we trained and they showed up. It says a lot about them," said manager Sarina Wiegman after the 1-0 win in World Cup qualifying.

At club level Wubben-Moy has filled in for Williamson in recent months too, helping Arsenal reach the Champions League semi-finals.

She was part of the winning squads at Euro 2022 and Euro 2025, as well as England's journey to the 2023 World Cup final.

But, despite continuing to be included in squads over the past four years, the 27-year-old is yet to make an appearance at a major tournament.

On Tuesday Wubben-Moy showcased why she remains such a valuable player.

"I feel good. I feel like this is me and I've kind of just been waiting for the moment to be able to show it. Now I'm able to," she said.

Doubts amid the success

Wubben-Moy's career has been a successful one.

She has made more than 100 appearances for Arsenal, winning the Champions League and four domestic cup trophies across two spells at the club.

Her breakout campaign came in 2023-24, when she worked closely with then assistant coach Renee Slegers to analyse her performances, and did more yoga.

At the end of that season she told BBC Sport she recruited her own team of statisticians - not affiliated with Arsenal - to help her develop personal skills that match the team's "DNA".

But injuries have disrupted her progress, and stiff competition - largely in the form of England captain Williamson - has stifled opportunities.

"You always have to trust in the process. It sounds cliched, but I think for every individual your journey looks different," said Wubben-Moy.

"My journey hasn't always been smooth and I actually think that's put me in better stead. I've learned so much about myself as a person and a player.

"I am now stronger, fitter, more confident, and that is only a result of the journey that I've had.

"I'd be lying if I said there weren't doubts.

"You constantly teeter on the line of confidence and belief but, ultimately, when you live life constantly wanting to push yourself, you will only ever get good results."

Spending time on the sidelines will have been a frustrating period for Wubben-Moy, particularly during major tournaments.