Lauren James hailed as England's 'bright spark' after narrow 1-0 win over Denmark
Former England international Fara Williams has described Lauren James as the 'only bright spark' for the Lionesses after Friday's narrow 1-0 win over Denmark in their second group stage fixture.
Sarina Wiegman's side edged closer to qualification to the knockout stages of the Women's World Cup but it was another unconvincing display from the European champions after only just beating Haiti by the same scoreline last week.Chelsea's James was a standout performer as her incredible strike from distance proved to be the difference on the day.
Following another performance that lacked authority, Williams hailed the 21-year-old and her ability to control the game.
Australia face anxious wait as Sam Kerr's World Cup hopes hang in the balance
Fire suits, cool finishes and electric celebrations on day eight of the Women's World Cup 2023
“She was the only bright spark for England,” she told the BBC post-match. «She kicked things off with that early goal and really set us on our way.
»After that 20-minute period, the only quality in this Lionesses team pretty much came from Lauren James. She certainly excited me. I was off my seat every time she got on the ball. We just need players around her.
“For somebody so young to control the momentum of our play in the way she did in all areas of the pitch. I think some of the more senior players need to take a leaf out of her book.”
James played the full 90 minutes against Denmark after she only made an appearance from the bench against Haiti. with Wiegman opting to start Manchester City's Lauren Hemp instead. On this occasion, the Chelsea star started out wide before she shifted deeper into a number 10 role in the second half when the England boss made changes.
England take on China on Tuesday
Read on football.london
