England vs Norway: Lionesses to wait on Steph Houghton availability for World Cup quarter-final after horror tackle

In a match marred by VAR controversy and ill-tempered scenes, Houghton was caught high above the ankle by Alexandra Engolo deep into stoppage time

England could be without captain Steph Houghton for the side’s World Cup quarter-final clash against Norway after the defender sustained an injury in Sunday’s 3-0 win over Cameroon.

In a match marred by VAR controversy and ill-tempered scenes, Houghton was caught high above the ankle by Alexandra Engolo deep into stoppage time.

England take on Norway in Le Havre on Thursday but manager Phil Neville has expressed his fears that the 31-year-old will be unavailable for selection.

“We’re concerned about her, she’s not someone that stays down,” he said.

“It was a late tackle and we’re going to have to do everything possible to get her fit for the quarter-final. She’s a big player for us, our captain.

“Her and Lucy Bronze were outstanding tonight – your big players stand up on the big occasions. I thought the composure of those two spread through the team.”

Neville also hit out at Cameroon’s players, who took exception to referee Liang Qin’s officiating, particularly the decision to award Ellen White’s goal before the break and disallow Ajara Nchout’s strike when the game restarted.

There were more incidents throughout the game, including Toni Duggan being spat on and the late challenge on Houghton.

“I want to speak first. One: Steph Houghton was player of the match and can’t be here as she’s on the treatment table, from the tackle that everyone saw. She needs to recover, she’s in a lot of pain. It’s not Fifa’s fault, this time.

“Secondly, I came to this World Cup to be successful and to play a part in making women’s football globally more visible. We wanted to put on a show. I sat through 90 minutes of football there and felt ashamed.”