10 August 2023 , 14:45
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FIFA have explained their decision which could allow Lauren James to play in the Women's World Cup final if England make it all the way.
James, who was sent off in the 87th minute of England's match against Nigeria in the round of 16 match after standing on Michelle Alozie, was expected to miss the final if the Lionesses made it.
However FIFA have now explained why she has only received a two-match ban, not the three-match ban which fans were expecting to see. FIFA’s disciplinary committee ruled that James’ actions were deemed as ‘serious foul play’, rather than 'violent conduct' - which is the difference in the extra match-ban and ultimately keep hopes alive of the Chelsea star making a return for a potential final.
James, who was having a phenomenal first tournament, has scored three goals in four games, and her eligibility to be able to play in the final or third/fourth place play-off if England reach that stage of the tournament would be a huge boost for the squad..
On her ban, FIFA said in a statement: “The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has imposed a two-match suspension on England’s player Lauren James following a violation of article 14 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code at the FIFA Women’s World Cup match England vs Nigeria.
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“The suspension will be served for the FIFA Women’s World Cup quarter-final and the next international fixture following that.”
Lauren James enjoyed some time on the beach
The England striker was spotted with ex-Lioness Jill ScottThe youngster, who is still only 21, has already apologised for her actions, while teammate Lucy Bronze has offered her own words of support.
Taking to Twitter earlier in the week, she quote tweeted to an earlier post from Nigeria's Alozie: "All my love and respect to you. I am sorry for what happened. Also, for our England fans and my team-mates, playing with and for you is my greatest honour and I promise to learn from my experience."