England will take on both Spain and Iceland this month in their ongoing 2027 Women’s World Cup qualifying campaign, and for the first time ever, the squad will feature Keira Barry.
The Bay FC forward is one of 24 players called up for the Lionesses, replacing the injured Freya Godfrey, who has withdrawn with a shoulder injury.
It’s Been a Long Time Coming for Keira Barry
Keira Barry’s path to this moment has been anything but straightforward.
After spending a decade in Manchester United’s academy system, she made her first senior appearance for the club in 2022.
However, she spent much of the last four seasons on loan and on dual registration, with spells at Derby County, Crystal Palace, and Sunderland.
She made just two senior appearances for United before departing in January 2026.
Rather than stay in England, Barry opted for a new challenge, signing a four-year deal with Bay FC in February 2026, reuniting her with former England youth coach Emma Coates.
She made her NWSL debut in March and scored her first goal for the club just weeks later in a 3-1 win over North Carolina Courage.
And her impressive recent form in America has earned her that long-awaited national cap.
Barry Joins Squad Bolstered by Returns
Keira Barry isn’t the only welcome addition to the squad. Chelsea defender Niamh Charles returns after recovering from an ankle injury, having featured in Chelsea’s last three games.
The 26-year-old was part of the England side that retained the European title in Switzerland last year. Her experience will be invaluable as the Lionesses look to maintain their winning start to qualifying.
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