Lauren James's undeniable talent brings a surge of optimism for England's prospects, but her unique style also poses a complex challenge for the team's manager, Sarina Wiegman. While James's creative spark and unpredictable movements inject a new level of dynamism into the Lionesses' attack, integrating her seamlessly into the existing team structure requires careful consideration.
James's return to the squad ahead of Euro 2025 has been highly anticipated, especially after recovering from a hamstring injury. Her performance in the 7-0 victory against Jamaica, where she assisted Alessia Russo's goal, demonstrated her readiness to make an impact. Former England goalkeeper Karen Bardsley lauded James as a "little magician," highlighting her exceptional skills and contribution to the team.
At 23, James is considered a crucial player for England, with her versatility being a valuable asset. Wiegman has emphasized James's ability to play in multiple positions, including upfront, on the wings, or as a number 10, providing the team with greater tactical flexibility. However, this versatility also creates a dilemma: how to best utilize James's talents within the team's framework.
England's midfield struggled against France, with Georgia Stanway and Keira Walsh finding it difficult to cope with the opponent's physicality and pressing game. With James playing as the number 10, instead of Ella Toone or Grace Clinton, there was a disruption to England's midfield unit. A structured midfield is what England is used to under Wiegman. James, however, is most effective when given a free role, allowed to run at defenses from central or wide positions.
Some suggest that Wiegman could opt for a more structured midfield, starting with Toone or Clinton, and then bringing James on later in the game to exploit tired defenses. This approach would allow England to maintain their stability while unleashing James's unpredictability in the later stages of the match.
James's father, Nigel, a UEFA-qualified coach, recognized her talent early on. He provided her with specialized training, focusing on "pure ball mastery and delivery with panache," which helped her develop into an elite technician. Her upbringing, alongside her brother Reece who also plays for Chelsea and England, further contributed to her development.
Despite the challenges of finding the right fit for James, her unique abilities are undeniable. She is not a traditional attacking player like Beth Mead, Lauren Hemp, or Chloe Kelly. England needs her creative edge, her unpredictability, and the fear she instills in opponents. Constructing the team in a way that draws the best out of her is a logical course of action.
As England prepares for their next match against the Netherlands in Zurich, the question of how to best utilize Lauren James remains a key consideration. Whether she starts or comes off the bench, her presence is expected to be a game-changer for England's Euro 2025 campaign. Her ability to deliver precise crosses, create chances, and unsettle defenses makes her a valuable asset in England's quest for back-to-back Euros victories.
