Fishlock returns to Wales as coach if World Cup play-off final reached — SkimNews
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- Jess Fishlock called time on her international playing career in October but remains active with Seattle Reign, where she recently became the club's all-time leading scorer with two goals against Boston Legacy.
- Rhian Wilkinson says Fishlock will not return as a player for Wales' World Cup play-off semi-finals against Albania, despite her form and a joking offer to come out of retirement.
- Wales will face Albania in a Women's World Cup qualifying play-off semi-final on 9 October at Loro Borici Stadium, with the return leg four days later in Llanelli.
- Kayleigh Barton, another recently retired Wales international, will join Wilkinson’s staff for the Albania ties, paving the way for Fishlock to take a coaching role in the next round.
- Jess Fishlock previously served as a technical assistant for Wales during their qualifying campaign and will return in a similar coaching capacity if Wales advance to the December play-off final.
Why it matters: Wales loses key senior players for the Albania tie but gains experienced leadership through Fishlock’s planned coaching return if they advance—turning a transition phase into an opportunity for mentorship, with a player who has 120+ caps now shaping the team from the sidelines rather than the pitch.
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