Lauren James: England star 'sorry' for red card after stamp against Nigeria in Women's World Cup

England’s Lauren James has apologised for her stamp on Nigeria’s Michelle Alozie that led to her being sent off, and says she “promises to learn from the experience”.

James was dismissed in the 87th minute of England’s Women’s World Cup last-16 clash against Nigeria.

She was initially shown a yellow card by the referee for stamping on the back of Alozie, but it was upgraded to a red following a VAR review.

England won the game in a penalty shootout, but James could miss the rest of the tournament depending on the outcome of a review by a FIFA disciplinary panel.

Writing on social media in a reply to a tweet from Alozie, James said: “All my love and respect to you. I am sorry for what happened.

“Also, for our England fans and my team-mates, playing with and for you is my greatest honour and I promise to learn from my experience.”

Alozie had said: “We are playing on the world’s stage, this game is one of passion, insurmountable emotions, and moments. All respect for Lauren James.”

England’s next game is against Colombia, who beat Jamaica 1-0 in the last 16, on Saturday.

James will be automatically suspended for that match but could also have her ban extended.

England released a statement saying: "Lauren is really sorry for her actions which led to the red card and is full of remorse. It is wholly out of character for her.

"We will be supporting Lauren throughout and will be putting forward representation on her behalf.

"We fully respect FIFA's disciplinary process and will not be making any further comment until after any decision has been made."

The Chelsea forward had been England’s standout player in the group stages, scoring twice and providing three assists in a 6-1 win over China.

England manager Sarina Wiegman said James “doesn't want to harm anyone” and expects the 21-year-old to learn from it.

"This was a moment, it was a split second, it was later in the game, so players also get a little tired,” said Wiegman.

“She’s an inexperienced player on this stage, and she’s done really well, and I think in a split second she just lost her emotions. Of course she doesn’t want to hurt anyone, she’s the sweetest person I know, and yeah, things happen like that.

“You can’t change it any more, it’s a huge lesson to learn, but of course it’s not something she’s done on purpose.

“I’ve spoken to her. I actually said what I’ve just said. Look, that happens sometimes with human beings, that they are in such an intense game and such a high-intensity, emotional game, and in a split second she lost her emotions.

“Of course she apologised and she felt really, really bad. But absolutely, she doesn’t want to hurt anyone.”

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