Lauren James will MISS England’s crucial Euro 2025 qualifier with France due to a foot injury… as Sarina Wiegman claims she ‘did everything’ to be ready but will also miss next week’s return fixture

England will be without Lauren James for Friday’s crucial Euro 2025 qualifier with France due to a foot injury.

James, who has withdrawn from the squad, has been carrying the injury for a number of weeks and was used sparingly in Chelsea’s final fixtures of the season.

The forward, who has been replaced in the squad by Tottenham’s Jessica Naz, will also miss the return fixture in Saint Etienne next week.

The back-to-back games with Les Bleus could be key in deciding who tops their group.

The Lionesses are currently second, having drawn with Sweden and beaten the Republic of Ireland while France took maximum points from their first two games.

Sarina Wiegman confirmed she would not be available for the return fixture next week

‘She already had some foot problems at her club, so she came in and we hoped that we could build to tomorrow, but just too early, so unfortunately she can’t stay with us,’ boss Sarina Wiegman said. 

Asked if that would apply to the return in France, Wiegman added: ‘Yes. She’s going to get prepared for the July window.

‘Of course it’s a disappointment. We did everything, she did everything, it’s just too early now and it’s not good enough. You have to be really top, top fit to get ready for tomorrow.

‘For her and for the team, it’s unfortunate. For Jess, she’s ready, she’s shown good stuff this week in training and with her club, so we have to move on.

‘It’s going to be a difficult game, it’s the first time I’ve played France with England. It will be a hard game for them and us.’