Lauren James ready to shine for England after injury recovery
- Lauren James has returned to training after recovering from a hamstring injury she sustained in April.
- Her absence affected Chelsea's successful season, but her return is a boost for the England team's Euro 2025 aspirations.
- James is focused on performing well without feeling pressured, supported by her teammates.
In June 2025, Lauren James, a forward for the England national football team, has made a remarkable return to training following her recovery from a hamstring injury sustained during a match against Belgium in April. This injury had sidelined her for a significant portion of the club season with Chelsea, preventing her from participating in the concluding stages of a successful campaign, which included Chelsea winning the domestic treble. Despite these setbacks, England head coach Sarina Wiegman included James in the squad for the UEFA European Championship, banking on her recovery ahead of the tournament. James has expressed an optimistic outlook regarding her comeback, stating that she never doubted her ability to be fit for the tournament. Throughout her recovery, she emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, as negative thoughts can hinder performance and morale. During this period, she found encouragement from her teammate Lucy Bronze, who consistently reassured her that she would be ready in time for the Euros. This support from her peers has reinforced James' belief in herself and her potential contributions to the team. As James resumes training, her teammates, including Bronze, have noted her significant improvement this season. According to Bronze, James has exceeded expectations in her performance, demonstrating growth both on and off the field. Had she remained fit for the entire season, there is a belief that Chelsea could have achieved even greater success. Despite her talent and potential impact for England, both James and Bronze acknowledge the depth of talent within the squad, rendering undue pressure unnecessary. The upcoming Euro 2025 Championship represents a critical juncture for James, who previously faced challenges during a major tournament. Her experience from past competitions, including a suspension, has provided her with valuable lessons. With the tournament set to unfold in Switzerland, the anticipation of James' contributions adds excitement to England's title defense. The support from her teammates and her own determination signal a promising return to the field, ensuring she is well-prepared to tackle the pressures of high-stakes international competition.