The Football Association have rallied behind Lauren James and confirmed they will be appealing the red card that could see the Chelsea attacker miss the Women’s World Cup final, should England get there. The 21-year-old, who had enjoyed a standout tournament to date, was shown a straight red card following a VAR review for stamping on Michelle Alozie just before the end of normal time.
James will be handed a one-match ban which could yet be extended via FIFA’s disciplinary process.
If James is to receive a three-match suspension, it means she has now kicked her final ball of the World Cup even if the Lionesses were to make the final.
An FA spokesman said: “Lauren is really sorry for her actions which led to the red card and is full of remorse. It is wholly out of character for her.
“We will be supporting Lauren throughout and will be putting forward representation on her behalf. We fully respect FIFA’s disciplinary process and will not be making any further comment until after any decision has been made.”
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