Steph Houghton was the surprising omission from the final 23-player English European Championship squad announced on Wednesday.
The Manchester City defender, who has been hit 121 times by her country, was the biggest name Sarina Wiegman left out before the tournament, kicking off with England’s clash against Austria over three weeks at Old Trafford.
Houghton has been hampered by ankle and Achilles injuries all season and has yet to make an English appearance under Wiegman, who took over the post last September.
Sources told Telegraph Sport that the meeting with Wiegman was an emotional one as Houghton digested the news that she would not be playing in a home tournament.
England captain for most of the past eight years, Houghton’s role now passes to Arsenal midfielder Leah Williamson.
Other players left out of a provisional 28-man squad are Everton goalkeeper Sandy MacIver, Chelsea defender Niamh Charles and Manchester United midfielders Katie Zelem and Lucy Stainforth.
But it is the exclusion of Houghton that has caused the biggest uproar with speculation about whether Wiegman, who is seen as a risky decision, would take to let her out.
Houghton injured herself while playing in Wiegman’s first English camp in September and, after returning to City in January, the problem worsened and underwent surgery, ending the season with just five WSL appearances.
“I’m excited about what’s possible for this group,” Wiegman said. “We all know this is a great opportunity and it is one that we must seize with both hands.
“Making the final choice is always difficult, because we know the talent and dedication of every single player.
“All 28 players have all been great on and off the field since I started. I’m sure those who should have disappointed us will give anything to support us and be ready when asked.
“Of course we hope to avoid any setbacks before we start against Austria, but we know where we can turn if we need a replacement.”