Wilkinson challenges Wales to fill Holland void

Ceri Holland has not played since Liverpool's win over Everton on 28 March [FAW] Wales head coach Rhian Wilkinson says it is up to other players to fill the void left by Ceri Holland in this week's Women's World Cup qualifying double-header against Albania. Wales meet the Albanians in Wrexham on Tuesday (19:15 BST) before travelling for the return fixture in Elbasan on Saturday (17:00 BST). They will be without the versatile Holland, who is arguably their most influential player, in both games due to injury.

But Wilkinson says the absence of Liverpool's Holland, 28, means a chance for others to shine. "Ceri is not replaceable, just like [the recently retired] Jess Fishlock, Kayleigh Barton," she said. "These are unique individuals who always bring something very special.

"But that leaves a space for someone to step into and absolutely I think there'll be players ready to step in and deliver a performance for Wales. " Wilkinson declined to discuss the extent of Holland's fitness issue. The 52-cap utility player scored twice in Liverpool's derby win over Everton at the end of March, but was not involved in their Women's FA Cup quarter-final win over Charlton earlier this month.

When asked about the reason behind Holland's absence, Wilkinson said: "I don't think that's for me to speak of, about what's up with Ceri. "I think her club can answer that, but obviously she has been playing fantastically for Wales and also for Liverpool and she's a big loss. " Even without Holland, as well as fellow injured players Olivia Clark and Lois Joel, Wales will start as firm favourites to claim two victories against Albania, opponents they have never previously faced.