Laur & order

JAMES BACKED TO STAR AGAIN

- TOM VICTOR in St Gallen

LAUREN JAMES was one of the stars of the show in England's 4-0 victory over Holland at Euro 2025, wasting little time getting back to her best after a lengthy layoff.

The Chelsea star missed the run-in after picking up a hamstring injury in early April, but returned to action at the end of June when the Lionesses beat Jamaica in their final friendly before the tournament.

There were flashes of quality in the defeat against France, but the second group game really showed why manager Sarina Wiegman has been so eager to incorporate James in her starting XI as soon as possible after that injury setback.

"You get the best out of LJ when she is expressive," said teammate Alex Greenwood.