The England women’s national team will have to do without shooting star Lauren James at the World Cup for the time being. After her assault, the punishment has now been announced.
England had a tough time against Nigeria in the round of 16. After 120 minutes without a goal on either side, it was not until the penalty shoot-out that the team of national coach Sarina Wiegmann prevailed 4-2.
Lauren James was no longer on the pitch at the time, the 21-year-old having been sent off for assault after 87 minutes. After a duel with Nigeria’s Michelle Alozie, the English Chelsea FC player was not whistled for a free kick, but then deliberately got on Alozie’s back out of frustration. This action was only deemed worthy of a red after the VAR intervened.
Kelly as a substitute?
Now it is known how many games James will miss for the Lionesses. FIFA announced on Thursday that the midfielder has been suspended for two games. James will therefore miss both the quarter-final against Colombia and a possible semi-final against the winner of the match between Australia and France. James would only be eligible to play again if they reach the final.
Lauren James has received a two-match ban after her straight red card vs. Nigeria
She’ll only be available again if England reach the World Cup final pic.twitter.com/bu4nT3mo5X
– B/R Football (@brfootball) August 10, 2023
Sportingly, the absence of James represents a bitter loss for England, after all, they have collected six scorer points (three goals, three assists) in the World Cup so far. James is ranked third behind France’s Kadidiatou Diani and Japan’s Hinata Miyazawa.
Chloe Kelly is available as a possible replacement. The 25-year-old was substituted after James was sent off and converted the decisive penalty against Nigeria.
