- Chelsea pip Man City to WSL title
- James stars in league triumph
- England ace rewarded with PFA prize
WHAT HAPPENED?
James scored 13 goals and bagged two assists in 16 games for Chelsea – the best numbers of her career so far – as they won the WSL for a record fifth-straight season. Now, the England international has picked up this top PFA prize to go with Chelsea Women’s Player of the Season accolade.
WHAT LAUREN JAMES SAID
In an Instagram story, she wrote: “Thank you all for your support. See you next season.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
For so long it looked like Chelsea would fall short in Emma Hayes’ last season as Blues manager, only for them to pip City to the title in a dramatic finale. James’ goals proved crucial as they came away with some silverware and if they are to continue winning trophies, the 22-year-old needs to be just as, if not more, influential going forward.
WHAT NEXT?
James, who lost out to City striker Khadija Shaw in the race for the Women’s Footballer of the Year award given by the Football Writers’ Association, is likely to feature for England in their upcoming Euro 2025 qualifiers against France on May 31 and June 4.
