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England Sweat Over Star Player's Fitness Ahead of Euro Final
25 Jul
Summary
- Lauren James, a key England player, is still recovering from an injury sustained in the semi-final.
- England manager Sarina Wiegman is unsure if James will be available for the final against Spain.
- England turned around a one-goal deficit against Italy to reach the final, setting up a rematch with the reigning world champions.
England's preparations for the European Championship final against Spain on Sunday have been clouded by concerns over the fitness of key forward Lauren James. The 23-year-old Chelsea player was substituted at half-time during England's semi-final victory over Italy on Tuesday, with manager Sarina Wiegman revealing that James is still recovering from the ankle injury that forced her off the pitch.
Wiegman has stated that the team will give James as much time as possible to prove her fitness, but admitted that she remains unsure whether the talented attacker will be available for the final. James has been in impressive form at the tournament, scoring twice in the group stage against the Netherlands, and her potential absence would be a significant blow to England's hopes of lifting the trophy.
The Lionesses overcame a one-goal deficit against Italy to win the semi-final 2-1 after extra time, setting up a rematch with Spain, the reigning world champions. England had previously lost to Spain in the 2023 World Cup final, and will be determined to avenge that defeat and claim their first major international title.
