Steph Houghton was a surprise omission from the last 23 European European Championship teams announced Wednesday.
Manchester City defender was capped 121 times in her country and was the biggest name Salina Wiefman left before the tournament. The tournament begins three weeks later in England’s clash with Austria in Old Trafford.
Houghton has been suffering from ankle and Achilles injuries throughout the season and has yet to make it to England under Weegman, who took over his job last September.
Sources told Telegraph Sports that the meeting with Weegman was emotional as he digested the news that Houghton wouldn’t play in his home tournament.
For most of the last eight years, England’s captain Houghton’s role has moved to Arsenal’s midfielder Leah Williamson.
Other players excluded from the provisional 28-man team are Everton keeper Sandy MacIver, Chelsea defender Niamh Charles, and Manchester United midfielders Katie Zelem and Lucy Steinous.
However, it was Horton’s exclusion that caused the biggest uproar in speculation over whether Weegman would adopt what would be considered a bold decision in excluding her.
Houghton was injured while playing at Weegman’s first England camp in September, and after returning to the city in January, he had aggravated the problem and underwent surgery, ending the season with only five WSL appearances.
“I’m excited about what we can do with this group,” Weegman said. “Everyone knows that this is a big opportunity and you have to grab it with both hands.
“We know the talents and commitments of every player, so making the final choice is always difficult.
“Since I started, all 28 players have done great on and off the pitch. The people we had to disappoint to support us and get ready when needed. I am confident that we will provide everything to you.
“Of course, I want to avoid setbacks before playing against Austria, but I know where to go if a replacement is needed.”