Lauren James withdraws from England squad due to calf injury

Lauren James has withdrawn from England’s squad to face Germany and South Africa due to a calf injury.

The 23-year-old forward came out of Chelsea’s starting line-up for Thursday’s 3-1 Champions League win at Twente as a late change after sustaining an issue in the pre-match warm-up.

Lauren James has withdrawn from the #Lionesses squad for the forthcoming October internationals.
Speedy recovery, LJ 👊
— Lionesses (@Lionesses) October 20, 2024

A statement from the Football Association on Sunday said: “James will stay with Chelsea for treatment as she continues to recuperate from a calf injury.

“No further additions are planned at this moment in time.”

Sarina Wiegman’s squad, now with 24 players, is due to join up at St George’s Park on Monday ahead of friendlies against Germany at Wembley on Friday and South Africa at the Coventry Building Society Arena four days later.