James: England must keep looking forward in quest for World Cup place

Lauren James has stated that the England women must intensify their efforts looking ahead towards securing a place at next summer’s World Cup.

Trailing Spain in Group 3 on goal difference, the nation takes on Greece in a double-header knockout format to advance.

Successfully passing Greece would send Wiegman’s side against the victor of the Slovakia versus Ukraine clash, with the eventual champion of that encounter securing qualification for the 2026 World Cup in Brazil.

“We cannot reverse what has recently happened, and we are currently in that precise position,” James told Sky Sports News. “Our focus must remain on looking forward and ensuring we secure a victory in these matches.”

She further clarified that the ultimate ambition is universal: the World Cup represents the ultimate aspiration for football players, and re-establishing the country’s presence means much to the squad. James continues in exceptional form at the club, leading second-placed Chelsea, whose team dropped only two points from their previous five league matches.

Switching focus to midfielder Lexi Potter, who admitted she felt “shocked” by receiving her inaugural England cap.

Having made four starts this term under Sonia Bompastor, the twenty‑year‑old secured a crucial scoreline in a 2‑0 triumph over Birmingham last month.

“Upon discovering the selection while resting in my bedroom, I was genuinely stunned by the response,” Potter confessed. “My guiding principle is to remain focused day-in and day-out, playing my best despite not dwelling excessively on the days ahead.”

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