James shining after putting in hard yards
Lauren James continued her stellar start to the season with two goals and an assist in Chelsea’s 3-1 defeat of Aston Villa. The 21-year-old shone in front of her manager, Emma Hayes, who returned to Kingsmeadow for the first time since an emergency hysterectomy and was watching from the stands. James has had to be patient since joining the champions from Manchester United in July 2021. Hayes makes no secret of the fact that what she demands of her players means it takes time for new recruits to get up to speed. Fans could have been forgiven for thinking James had made a mistake in returning to Chelsea, with her game time significantly reduced last season. Now, though, we are seeing the patience and hard work pay off – and then some. James is regarded as perhaps the most naturally talented English footballer since Kelly Smith, and watching her thrive is a treat. Suzanne Wrack
