England manager Sarina Wiegman says the team have received reassurances there are no safety concerns surrounding their Women’s World Cup qualifier against Ukraine in Turkey.
The Lionesses face Ukraine in Antalya at 17:00 GMT on Tuesday. The match is being staged in Turkey because Ukraine are unable to host fixtures at home following Russia’s invasion, now in its fifth year.
Wiegman confirmed the Football Association remains in close contact with authorities amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
“Yes, we did have reassurances. We are in close contact with the government and the people here that are responsible,” she said.
“We’re fine here but we’re keeping an eye on it. We’re in contact all the time with the responsible authorities.
“Of course, you’re concerned about what’s happening in the world. When we think, or our government thinks it’s unsafe, we will go back. At this moment, we don’t have signals of that.”
Focus on football amid wider conflict
England travelled to Turkey last Wednesday for a training camp, though it remains unclear how many supporters will attend following recent developments in the region. Some fans and media outlets have opted not to travel.
Wiegman described it as “really sad” that Ukraine are forced to host matches abroad because of the ongoing conflict.
“You want Ukraine to be able to play in their home country. They had to travel a lot themselves to get here. The things they have in front of them in their country is really horrible.
“We hope this game unites a bit. It’s a chance for Ukraine to show themselves to the world in another way where hopefully football unites and brings some joy.”
Stanway eyes strong start to campaign
Midfielder Georgia Stanway said England’s priority is to secure qualification swiftly from a group that also includes Iceland and Spain, with only the top side progressing automatically to the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
“Our main task is to qualify as fast as possible but we also understand the process behind it and what it takes to get to a Euros and a World Cup,” Stanway said.
“We know it’s super difficult. We need to make sure we’re adapting, evolving and changing our game. We know our opposition are getting better and better.”
Stanway also confirmed she will leave Bayern Munich when her contract expires this summer and is close to deciding her next move, with talks ongoing over a pre-contract agreement with Arsenal.
“I’ve absolutely loved my time at Bayern and it has probably been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my life,” she said.
“I want to continue to play this season and make as many memories as possible.”
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