# Sarina Wiegman England Boss Keeps France Guessing Over Lauren James Start

The **Sarina Wiegman England** setup is facing intense scrutiny ahead of their pivotal Euro 2025 qualifier, with the manager remaining characteristically tight-lipped about whether star forward Lauren James will start against France. The Chelsea attacker has been recovering from a foot injury, and her fitness has become the dominant talking point as the Lionesses prepare for a blockbuster clash at St. James’ Park. Wiegman’s refusal to confirm James’ availability for the starting XI adds a layer of tactical intrigue to a match that could define England’s qualifying campaign.

James, arguably one of England’s most creative and unpredictable talents, has been carefully managed since picking up the injury. Her ability to change a game with a moment of individual brilliance makes her a potential match-winner against a formidable French side. However, Wiegman is known for her meticulous planning and prioritisation of player welfare, suggesting she will not risk a long-term setback for a short-term gain, no matter how significant the fixture. The decision facing **Sarina Wiegman England** is a delicate balancing act between unleashing a potent weapon and protecting a prized asset for the challenges ahead.

## Why is the Sarina Wiegman England Camp Being So Cautious?

The caution surrounding Lauren James is rooted in a pragmatic, long-term strategy that has become a hallmark of the Wiegman era. With a gruelling domestic season with Chelsea now behind her, rushing James back into the high-intensity environment of an international qualifier against one of the world’s best teams carries significant risk.

### 1. The Nature of the Injury

Foot and hamstring issues, which James has dealt with this season, are notoriously prone to re-aggravation if not managed perfectly. The physical demands of playing as a dynamic forward—involving explosive sprints, sharp turns, and powerful shots—place immense strain on the lower body. Wiegman and her medical staff will be acutely aware that a premature return could sideline James not just for the return fixture in France, but potentially impact her pre-season and the start of the next domestic campaign. This careful management is what fans have come to expect, as the focus remains on ensuring players are available for the entirety of a campaign, not just a single match.

### 2. The Strength of the Squad

A key reason Wiegman can afford to be patient is the incredible depth of talent at her disposal. The tactical flexibility of the **Sarina Wiegman England** squad means there are several high-calibre alternatives ready to step in. Players like Lauren Hemp, Chloe Kelly, and a resurgent Beth Mead all offer different, yet equally potent, threats on the flanks. Ella Toone provides a creative spark in the number 10 role, capable of unlocking defences with her intelligent movement and passing. This depth allows Wiegman to tailor her attack specifically to counter France’s strengths and weaknesses, rather than being reliant on a single player. It also fosters healthy competition, ensuring every player in the squad remains at peak readiness.

### 3. Tactical Mind Games

Wiegman’s coyness is also a shrewd tactical manoeuvre. By keeping her French counterpart, Hervé Renard, guessing about James’ involvement, she forces him to prepare for multiple scenarios. Will France need to set up to contain James’ dribbling and power, or will they face a different style of attack focused on the pace of Hemp or the crossing of Kelly? This uncertainty can disrupt the opposition’s preparation and hand England a slight psychological edge before a ball is even kicked. It is a subtle but effective element of modern international management. For a full list of the players Wiegman has at her disposal, you can visit the Lionesses’ official page.

The manager’s recent comments were telling in their ambiguity. “She is in a good place,” Wiegman stated at the pre-match press conference. “She has been training. She is happy, we are happy. We have two more training sessions to go, so we will see who is on the pitch tomorrow.” This classic Wiegman response confirms James’ progress while revealing nothing concrete, leaving the final decision to be unveiled on the teamsheet. The challenge for **Sarina Wiegman England** is immense, and every small advantage counts.

The outcome of this crucial qualifier will have significant implications for a group that also includes Sweden and the Republic of Ireland. A positive result against France would put the Lionesses in a commanding position to secure automatic qualification for the tournament they will be defending. Whether Lauren James plays from the start, comes on as an impact substitute, or is saved for the return fixture, the decision will be a calculated one, designed to maximise England’s chances of success both now and in the future. For a full breakdown of all the qualifying groups and upcoming fixtures, you can find for more news on our homepage.