Is Lauren James playing in the World Cup final? Latest on England star ahead of Spain match
England face a date with destiny as Sarina Wiegman's Lionesses take on Spain in their first-ever FIFA Women's World Cup final on August 20.
Wiegman's charges produced a superb 3-1 semifinal win over co-hosts Australia to secure their spot in the final with specutacular goals from Ella Toone and Alessia Russo.
However, despite the impressive individual performances against the Matildas, Wiegman now has to make some important decisions on her starting XI for the final in Sydney.
The experienced Dutch coach has made tweaks to both lineups and formations during the tournament, but the return of Lauren James presents a crunch call ahead of the final.
By reaching Women's World Cup final, England’s Sarina Wiegman shows she is world’s best coach and should be No. 1 USWNT target
This question will form a major part of both Wiegman's pre-final press conferences and her preparations for the final itself.
Chelsea star James has effectively seen her World Cup split into two parts in Australia and New Zealand, after forcing her way into the starting lineup after the first group game.
A fantastic winning goal against Denmark, followed by a double in the 6-1 victory over China marked the 21-year-old out as a vital attacking star for England, moving into the knockout stages.
A goal worthy of winning any game ☄️An absolute beauty from Lauren James wins it for #ENG, who make it two wins in two at the #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/725CncQwWT
However, a late red card against Nigeria in the Round of 16, saw her tournament turned upside down, with FIFA issuing a two-game ban.
James issued an apology following her stamp on Michelle Alozie as England gritted through a penalty shootout win without her against the Super Falcons.
All my love and respect to
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