rewrite this title James returns to Lionesses squad as Kelly dropped – Soccer News

Lauren James has been named in England’s squad for this month’s Nations League matches against Portugal and Spain, returning to the fold for the first time since last April.

Chelsea forward James withdrew from Sarina Wiegman’s squad for friendlies against Germany and South Africa in October after sustaining a calf issue, which kept her out until January.

She has played six games for Sonia Bompastor’s runaway Women’s Super League leaders since returning, scoring in a 7-0 rout of Crystal Palace.

James’ Chelsea team-mate Niamh Charles is also back in the squad after recovering from a shoulder injury she sustained in pre-season, which required surgery.

Welcome back, LJ and @niamhcharles7 pic.twitter.com/Mrc4rl3Nmm

— Lionesses (@Lionesses) February 11, 2025

Also back in the squad is Nikita Parris, who has been rewarded for her strong showings for Brighton with her first call-up since November 2022.

Parris has scored four goals in 11 WSL outings for the Seagulls, who are flying high in fifth place.

There is no room for Euro 2022 final hero Kelly, however, with the winger not appearing in any competition since December 15.

She fell out of favour under Manchester City head coach Gareth Taylor and joined Arsenal on loan in January, but she is yet to make her debut for the Gunners.

Georgia Stanway, Lauren Hemp and Alex Greenwood will all miss the first games of England’s Nations League campaign due to injuries, with the former a doubt for Euro 2025.

England squad: 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, Alessia Russo.