West Ham United's Lucy Parker has been named in the England squad for the April international fixtures.
The 24-year-old defender has been called up by Sarina Wiegman for international matches against Brazil and Australia at Wembley Stadium and Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium.
This is the second time this season that Parker has been called up to the Lionesses, having been forced to withdraw from the squad due to injury in October 2022 ahead of games against the USA and Czech Republic.
England face Seleção at Wembley in the first edition of the Women's Finalissima, an intercontinental women's football match between the winners of the most recent European and South American Championships. Brazil were the winners of the 2022 Copa América Femenina.
The Lionesses will then take on The Matildas in a friendly match in west London, which will see Parker potentially take on Club teammate Mackenzie Arnold, who has been named in Tony Gustavsson’s squad.
The fixture against Brazil will take place on Thursday 6 April (7.45pm BST), whilst the game against Australia comes on Tuesday 11 April (7.45pm BST).
Parker has previously represented England at U23 level and has featured 12 times this season for the Hammers.
After suffering the heartache of injury the first time around, Parker is excited about the prospect of joining up with the Lionesses
“It’s really great to have been called up to the senior squad again,” she told whufc.com.
“I’ve had to work really hard after my injury in October to get myself fit and in contention. I’m really proud of the work I’ve put it.
“I didn’t get a chance to meet the team last time so it will be a surreal feeling joining up with some of the players that I watched lift the Euros this summer. It is an opportunity that fills me with a lot of excitement.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has helped me get to this point and I’m just so happy to have this chance again. I’m looking forward to the experience."
Manager Paul Konchesky shared his delight for Parker’s achievement and is looking forward to seeing her joining up with the senior squad.
“It is fantastic for Lucy and everyone at West Ham is delighted for her to get back into the squad,” Konchesky said.
“Lucy has worked hard to get back following her injury in October and the setback that she had. It is testament to her that she came back into our team and put herself in the position to receive a call up again.
“Lucy is a true professional. She wants to be the best - it’s one thing saying it but she shows it every single day. Her attitude and her effort is second to none.
“Lucy should be very proud of herself, as should the Club because the England squad is full of talent right now. To have another one of our players represent us on the international stage is fantastic. I’m delighted for her, the team and my staff."
Everyone at West Ham United would like to congratulate Lucy on this fantastic achievement and we look forward to seeing her link up with the England squad next week.
