BASEL, Switzerland – England head coach Sarina Wiegman says she is still unsure whether star forward Lauren James will be fit for Sunday’s UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 final against Spain, as the Lionesses prepare for their shot at reclaiming European glory in Basel.
James, 23, was forced off at half-time during England’s dramatic 2-1 extra-time semi-final win over Italy on Tuesday after suffering an ankle injury.
She was later seen icing the ankle from the bench, raising immediate concerns over her availability for the final at St Jakob-Park.
“She’s still recovering. She’s doing things on the pitch and we have two more days, so we’re going to give her time,” Wiegman said during a media briefing. “I don’t know yet [if she’ll be ready], but that’s what we’re going for—23 players available for Sunday.”
James has been instrumental in England’s journey to the final, netting twice in the tournament and playing a pivotal role in the team’s attacking buildup.
Her potential absence would be a significant blow to the Lionesses as they seek redemption after last year’s FIFA World Cup final loss to Spain.
Who could replace James?
Should James be ruled out, Wiegman will face the difficult task of choosing a replacement—an issue that has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike throughout the tournament.
The England boss, however, said selection and substitutions are never made lightly.
“It’s not a decision we just make in the moment,” she explained. “Before every match, we talk through what we might potentially need in the game and what player fits that scenario. It’s a mix of preparation and game-time instinct.”
Chloe Kelly and teenage forward Michelle Agyemang have both made compelling cases for more minutes, with key contributions off the bench in the knockout stages. Grace Clinton, Niamh Charles and others have also made vital cameos.
“Everyone sees the players scoring goals off the bench, but others have been equally impactful in different ways—like Grace stepping in for Keira Walsh or Niamh’s crucial header against Sweden,” Wiegman added. “These are the kinds of headaches I like to have.”
Wiegman focused on final, not future
The England manager, who has drawn widespread praise for her tactical acumen, said she’s fully focused on Sunday’s final and refused to be drawn into questions about her future beyond her current contract, which runs through the 2027 World Cup.
“I’m so ‘in’ these Euros,” Wiegman said. “We play a final on Sunday, and there is nothing else that I am thinking about.”
Her comments follow recent remarks from Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham, who said Wiegman is “not for sale at any price”, underlining the FA’s commitment to keeping the Dutch coach at the helm.
