Sonia Bompastor has confirmed Lauren James will miss at least five games, putting her England World Cup qualifying play-off place in serious doubt.
Lauren James will be out for a minimum of five games, according to Sonia Bompastor, and the timeline puts her availability for England's World Cup qualifying play-offs in real doubt.
Bompastor made clear that the forward faces a spell of at least several weeks on the sidelines. The coach did not suggest a quick turnaround, which leaves little margin for James to return and be match-fit before the Lionesses' next big assignment.
James is one of England's most dangerous attacking talents. Her creativity, movement and eye for goal make her difficult to replace, so her absence is a blow both to her club and to the national team at a pivotal moment.
The play-offs are high-stakes, with a place at the World Cup on the line. England's coaching staff will now have to weigh their attacking options and wait on further updates about how James's recovery progresses.
For now, the focus is on rehabilitation. How quickly James can get back to full fitness will decide whether she gets a chance to help England chase a spot on the global stage.
