Injury blow for England as Lauren James ruled out of France double-header

INJURY BLOW: Lauren James has been battling a foot injury. Pic: Jane Barlow/PA

England boss Sarina Wiegman has been dealt a huge blow ahead of the Euro qualifier double-header against France after Lauren James was forced to pull out through injury.

The 22-year-old attacker reported for international duty with a foot injury and has had to admit defeat in her efforts to prove her fitness ahead of Friday night’s Group A3 fixture at St James’ Park and the trip to St-Etienne which follows on Tuesday.