England’s Lauren James has warned that she has “more to come” after firing England to a 6-1 win over China at 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses knew that one point would see them top Group D but James fired them comfortably through in a 6-1 win over China, in which she scored twice and provided three assists whilst another goal was disallowed due to Lucy Bronze being adjudged offside.
James though has refused to settle for her impressive performance as she instead iterated that she will only improve, as she explained: “For sure there is more to come from me. Each day, each game, I am looking to improve and get better.
“There are many more years of improvement, and I can always get better so I just need to stay focused and hopefully that can happen.”
James also scored the winner against Denmark in England’s second group match which put her second in the Golden Boot race, only behind Japan’s Hinata Miyazawa who has netted four goals.
On the prospect of challenging for the Golden Boot, James quipped: “Obviously it is what dreams are made of, I am happy for the team and everybody is buzzing.”
Having played a wide role against Denmark, James was deployed in the central attacking midfielder role as part of a tactical shake-up due to Keira Walsh’s injury.
“I felt free, whether I am on the wing or in the middle. To be fair I am just happy to be on the pitch playing and enjoying my football,” commented the 21 year-old who was relaxed about her positional tweak.
Looking ahead to a tough Round of 16 clash against Nigeria at 8:30am UK Time on Monday 7 August, James feels that they will be “very tough,” to face after they held Canada and Republic of Ireland in-between a shock 3-2 win over Australia in Group B.
James nevertheless feels that the early feeling of difficulty against Nigeria is reflective of the game’s worldwide growth, as she concluded: “Teams are catching up with each other and I know that will be another very difficult game.”
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