'They were grown women' - The making of England's banned superstar Lauren James
Lauren James has certainly been making headlines during a drama-packed Women's World Cup for the Chelsea and England superstar.
The shy and unassuming forward doesn't court attention, but attention has had no trouble seeking her out as Sarina Wiegman's Lionesses have progressed to the quarter finals.
A pair of talismanic performances against Denmark and China in the group stages coupled with a moment of madness against Nigeria in the last-16 – being sent off for stamping on Michelle Alozie – have brought her to everybody’s attention.
The 21-year-old will miss this weekend's last eight tie against Colombia, as well as the semi-final should England progress, but will be available for the final if the Lionesses make it that far after her ban was extended to just two games.
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Comparisons were immediately made with David Beckham's petulant kick at Diego Simeone in 1998 and Wayne Rooney's stamp on Ricardo Carvalho in 2006, and for good reason.
It is not just the red card those moments have in common; it is the frightening talent and ability of the player in question who could lead England for a generation.
Early life
James isn’t the only professional footballer in her family and growing up with brother Reece, who currently plays for Chelsea and England, alongside her other brother Josh, has helped her get where she is today according to her father Nigel.
Speaking to BBC Sport, he said: «The impact that had was unreal.
»If Lauren didn't have that upbringing around elite-end boys, without realising it, she wouldn't be where she is today.
«She is an
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