Lionesses star Lauren James has the X factor England need to beat Spain and gain an advantage in World Cup qualification. & more related news here

It is unlikely that James will be able to have as free a role as that when England take on Spain. This is a game in which the Lionesses will have to be extremely disciplined, as they are likely to have less possession of the ball than their opponent, despite being the home team.

This is how it played out the last time the two met at Wembley, with England defending brilliantly and being extremely efficient with the ball to win 1-0, posting an expected goals statistic of 1.69, just shy of Spain’s 1.93.

James played a key role on both ends, causing problems in attack with four shots on goal while making a great defensive shift, winning four rushing duels.

“I think the most important step he’s taken is that, on defense, he’s working very hard and doing very well,” Wiegman said afterward. “That’s a huge, huge improvement. I’m proud that she’s doing that.”