Steph Houghton returns to England squad ahead of World Cup qualifiers with Wales and Bosnia

England captain Steph Houghton has returned to the squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Wales and Bosnia after missing the SheBelieves Cup through injury with Arsenal striker Beth Mead in line to win her first senior cap.

In her absence, a victory over France and a draw with Germany was enough to lift England to second in the world rankings, behind the USA, who beat them in their final game in the tournament.

There is also a recall for Arsenal forward Jordan Nobbs, who is joined by her club team-mate Mead, who has been involved in the England squad before but has never featured in a game. Reading goalkeeper Mary Earps has also been drafted into the squad for the first competitive games of Phil Neville’s reign as manager.

Having claimed the games at the SheBelieves Cup would tell him more about his players than the forthcoming qualifiers, Neville is now wary of taking either opponent lightly, particularly as the Wales game, which will be held at Southampton’s St Mary’s Stadium next Friday, is likely to be close to a sell-out.

“I am really pleased for the players that their hard work has been recognised in the new rankings,” said Neville. “To get to second in the world is a wonderful achievement, but if we want to take the last – and biggest – step to become number one then we have to deliver in matches like the two we have coming up. 

“Because of what’s at stake, they are more important than the SheBelieves and we will prepare accordingly.

“Wales will be my first competitive match in charge and it will be an incredible honour to walk out at a packed Premier League ground with this group of players. I have been so impressed at how they have reacted to what I and the coaches have asked of them in everything we do on and off the field.

“In particular, the young players have really taken their chance to shine. We are delighted to have Steph and Jordan back, but we also want to keep giving opportunities to the next generation coming through. I hope as many people as possible come out to support them –especially with the game coming in the middle of the Easter school holidays.” Casey Stoney will continue her key support role as part of The FA’s player-to-coach scheme while Neville has also asked Sunderland coach Melanie Copeland to assist him with this camp.

With Mo Marley, who travelled to the SheBelieves Cup, focusing on the U20s’ own World Cup this summer, Neville is keen to keep providing opportunities within the women’s game. “I’m honoured to have been asked to work with the England senior women’s team and feel very privileged to have been given the opportunity,” said Copeland. “I really look forward to working with players, the other backroom staff and Phil Neville, who I would like to thank for giving me the chance to work with the Lionesses.”

• Tickets for the Wales match at St Mary’ Stadium, Southampton, on Friday April 6 are on sale now. Children and concessions tickets are just £1 and group booking and Charter Standard discounts apply