STEPH HOUGHTON has been left out of England’s final 23-player squad for this summer’s home Euros.

Lucy Staniforth, Katie Zelem, Niamh Charles and Sandy MacIver are the others from the provisional 28-strong group omitted by Lionesses boss Sarina Wiegman.

Houghton, England’s captain at their last three major tournaments, has not played since January due to an Achilles issue, for which she underwent surgery in February.

Jill Scott and Fran Kirby are two out of action towards the end of the season to get the nod from Wiegman, who named Leah Williamson as her skipper for the tournament in April.

The door is not entirely closed at this stage for those left out of the 23 – changes can be made to the squad until June 26.

Wiegman said in a statement from the FA: “Making the final selection is always difficult because we know the talent and commitment of every single player.

“All 28 players have all been superb on and off the pitch, since I started [last September]. I am certain those we have had to disappoint will give everything to support us and be ready if called upon.”