Sarina Wiegman has named her first squad of 2025 for two tough matches in the UEFA Nations League that also serve as the opening salvos ahead of this summer's European Championships in Switzerland.
England travel to face Portugal on Friday 21st before a stern test of their credentials when they take on World champions Spain at Wembley on Wednesday 26th.
The most eye-catching inclusion in the squad is the return of Nikita Parris after a good WSL season to date with Brighton for the forward but the matches may have come too soon for Chloe Kelly after her deadline move to Arsenal on loan from Manchester City.
Lauren James and Ella Toone return after injury.
Speaking to England Football after naming her squad, Wiegman said: "Hard work during the week and our performances in these two matches can give us a strong foundation for a big year ahead."
England face a tricky group stage in the defence of their European crown after not given a top seeding for the draw, placed alongside France, 2017 winners Holland and Wales.
England will play France and the Netherlands in Zurich (5 and 9 July) before rounding off the group against the Welsh in St. Gallen on 13 July.