Ella Toone says she learned a "massive lesson" while sidelined with injury as she prepares to make her long-awaited England return.

The 26-year-old last featured for the Lionesses in November 2025, having suffered a hip injury while playing for Manchester United.

Toone returned to feature in United's final three games of the season and could now play a role in England's World Cup qualifier against rivals Spain on Friday.

She is now determined to get back to full fitness and prolong her international career as she looks to become an important part of the England setup again.

"It's been a tough six months. I've wanted to get back on the pitch and do what I love," said Toone.

"I've learned that I'm not 18 any more and that my body's been through a lot. I have to look after my body much better than I have been doing in previous years. I know that recovery is massive now.

"I want to prolong my career as much as I can, and I think there was a massive lesson in this injury.

"Every time the squad is announced you are worried you might not make it, especially missing the past two camps, I knew I had to make myself available."

Should England avoid defeat to Spain, they will qualify for the Women’s World Cup – it would be the sixth consecutive tournament the Lionesses have reached, after missing the finals in both 1999 and 2003.

They also face Ukraine next Tuesday at Everton's Hill Dickinson Stadium, which could offer another chance to clinch qualification if they fall short against Spain.

England have won more games against Spain this century than any other nation across all competitions (nine), including a 1-0 win at Wembley Stadium in the reverse fixture, while they also defeated La Roja on penalties in the Euro 2025 showpiece. 

"Spain love to be in possession and sometimes it's frustrating, but you've got to be patient," Toone added.

"I think they don't like coming up against an England midfield either, and we know what we're good at.

"We have to be confident in the team we have and there's a lot of talent, a lot of experienced players and talent coming through.

"It's going to be an exciting game and one we are definitely ready for."