The report says Potter, 20, has quickly become a regular starter for Chelsea at the beginning of the new season. That club involvement appears to have strengthened her case for international recognition.
For a player still building experience, the timing is significant. A competitive qualifying tie offers a tougher examination than a routine friendly, but Potter’s selection would also reflect Sarina Wiegman’s willingness to reward current club form.
Parkinson is also reportedly included after making a promising start in the United States. Her call-up gives England another developing option and underlines the competition for places ahead of a decisive qualification campaign.
The reported omissions of Kelly and Toone create a different kind of talking point. Kelly has had limited starts for Arsenal early in the season, while the report says Toone had only recently returned to Manchester United’s starting line-up. Their absence should not be read as a permanent change in status, but it does show that selection remains closely tied to current rhythm.
Further reported changes include Niamh Charles returning after injury and Grace Fisk earning inclusion. Khiara Keating is also said to have returned among the goalkeepers after moving to Liverpool.
The report says England missed automatic qualification from a group containing Spain, leaving a two-legged route through the play-offs. The first leg is scheduled for 9 October in Heraklion, with the return at Leicester City’s King Power Stadium on 13 October.
Progress would reportedly set up a further tie against Slovakia or Ukraine. For Potter and Parkinson, the next fixture could therefore be more than a first call-up: it may be the opening chapter of England’s next qualification push.