Lauren James Rejoins Lionesses Squad For Nations League Matches As Kelly Is Dropped

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Lauren James is back in England's squad for the Nations League matches against Portugal and Spain this month. This marks her return since last April. James, a forward for Chelsea, had to withdraw from Sarina Wiegman's squad in October due to a calf injury. This injury kept her sidelined until January.

Since her return, James has played six matches for Sonia Bompastor's leading Women's Super League team. She even scored in a 7-0 victory over Crystal Palace. Her Chelsea teammate, Niamh Charles, also rejoins the squad after recovering from a shoulder injury that required surgery during pre-season.

Nikita Parris makes her return to the England squad after impressive performances for Brighton. This is her first call-up since November 2022. Parris has netted four goals in 11 Women's Super League appearances for Brighton, who currently sit fifth in the league standings.

However, Euro 2022 final hero Kelly is not included in the squad. Kelly hasn't played since December 15 and fell out of favour with Manchester City's head coach Gareth Taylor. She moved to Arsenal on loan in January but has yet to debut for them.

Georgia Stanway, Lauren Hemp, and Alex Greenwood will miss England's initial Nations League games due to injuries. Stanway's participation in Euro 2025 remains uncertain due to her condition.

The England squad includes Mary Earps, Hannah Hampton, Anna Moorhouse; Millie Bright, Lucy Bronze, Jess Carter, Niamh Charles, Maya Le Tissier, Esme Morgan, Millie Turner, Leah Williamson, Lotte Wubben-Moy; Laura Blindkilde Brown, Grace Clinton, Ruby Mace, Jess Park, Ella Toone, Keira Walsh; Aggie Beever-Jones, Lauren James, Beth Mead, Jess Naz, Nikita Parris and Alessia Russo.