Arsenal's Beth Mead misses out on interim manager Hege Riise's first England Lionesses squad

Beth Mead has been left out of England's squad for their friendly against Northern Ireland. Picture: Getty

England play their first fixture in almost a year when they take on Northern Ireland on February 23 in a friendly encounter.

Riise said the Hinderwell hot shot has been affected by a lack of game time for Arsenal, who have had a spate of matches postponed recently.

Riise added: "The player report hasn't been that great. For me to narrow the squad, it leaves her out. If she performs every weekend then we will see."

After England’s game against Northern Ireland they will welcome Canada on Tuesday April 13.

England Squad:

Goalkeepers: Hannah Hampton (Birmingham City), Sandy MacIver (Everton), Ellie Roebuck (Manchester City),

Defenders: Millie Bright (Chelsea), Lucy Bronze (Manchester City), Rachel Daly (Houston Dash), Alex Greenwood (Manchester City), Steph Houghton (Manchester City), Chloe Kelly (Manchester City), Leah Williamson (Arsenal), Lotte Wubben-Moy (Arsenal)

Midfielders: Jordan Nobbs (Arsenal), Jill Scott (Everton, loan from Manchester City), Georgia Stanway (Manchester City), Ella Toone (Manchester United), Keira Walsh (Manchester City)

Forwards: Bethany England (Chelsea), Lauren Hemp (Manchester City), Fran Kirby (Chelsea), Ellen White (Manchester City)