Lionesses can cope without Lauren James at Women’s World Cup says Bethany England – ‘Not defined by one player’

Bethany England says the Lionesses can cope without the suspended Lauren James heading into the Women’s World Cup quarter-final against Colombia on Saturday.

England said: “She’s [James] doing good. Obviously, she’s disappointed with what happened on the day, and it was a split-second emotional moment that happened.

“But we we’ve got round her. Obviously, it’s good that she’s acknowledged that and she’s put her apology out. And now we just wait to see what FIFA do and we just move on from it now.

“I can imagine it’s a very difficult position for her to be in. But whether they did it on the same day or not, it’s not going to affect us in a way that we’re not defined by one player.

“I think it’s important that everyone’s there for her and that we are there for her as a team and as a coaching staff. But ultimately, whatever decision they make, we have to unfortunately accept that and just get on with the game.

“There are bigger things than just focusing on one player right now.”

Sarina Wiegman’s side face a Colombia side that topped Group H with 2-0 and 2-1 wins over South Korea and Germany, respectively, finishing above Morocco on goal difference following a 1-0 defeat to the Lionesses of Atlas in their last match. That came before a 1-0 victory over Jamaica in the last 16.

Despite their impressive progress, concerns have been raised by Colombia’s aggressive style of play after a warm-up match against the Republic of Ireland was suspended.

However, England stressed that Colombia’s technical ability is much more of a concern rather than their physical characteristics.

“If it gets too physical, I’m sure the referees will step in when it comes to regards the safety of players. But ultimately, I just think it’s a case, the biggest danger is just not to underestimate them.

“Like I said, they beat Germany, who are one of the biggest teams in this tournament. So, I think we just have to make sure we approach it in a good manner, knowing that they can be physical. We can also be physical and match that.

“I think it’s just going to be important that we don’t get too into more of a fight rather than actually playing football, because that’s what we’re here to do. We’re here to play the game that we love, and hopefully do it in a good, stylish way as well.”