Lauren James withdrawn from England squad

Chelsea forward Lauren James has been withdrawn from the England squad for the upcoming European Championship qualifying matches against France due to injury.

The 22-year-old will have no involvement in the Lionesses’ qualifying matches against France at Newcastle United’s St James’ Park on Friday night and the reverse fixture in Saint-Etienne on Tuesday night.

Lionesses head coach Sarina Wiegman explained James’s absence when facing the media this evening.

‘Lauren James didn’t make it,’ she said. ‘She already had a foot problem [before joining up] but we hoped we could build her up for tomorrow. It’s just too early so unfortunately she can’t stay with us. She is going to get prepared for the July window.

‘It’s a disappointment. She did everything, it’s just too early now. It’s not good enough and you have to be top, top fit to be ready tomorrow. So for her and the team, it’s unfortunate.’

Chelsea are represented in the England squad by goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, defender and Blues captain Millie Bright, fellow centre-back Jess Carter, and forward Aggie Beever-Jones.

The Lionesses sit second in Group A3 with four points after two games played, with their upcoming opponents sitting top after an unbeaten start to their qualifying campaign.