England Sweat on Lauren James Fitness Ahead of Euro 2025 Final Against Spain

England manager Sarina Wiegman faces an anxious wait to determine the fitness of star forward Lauren James ahead of Sunday's Euro 2025 final against Spain in Basel. James, who has been instrumental in England's run to the final, sustained an ankle injury during Tuesday's semi-final victory over Italy and was substituted at half-time.

The Lionesses are set to face Spain at St Jakob-Park, with kick-off scheduled for 17:00 BST. The match will be broadcast live on BBC One, iPlayer, BBC Radio 5 Live, 5 Sports Extra and BBC Sounds, as well as live text coverage on the BBC Sport website and app.

Wiegman Remains Hopeful but Cautious

Speaking from the team's base in Zurich, Wiegman confirmed that James is undergoing intensive treatment. "She's still recovering," Wiegman explained. "She's doing things on the pitch and we have two more days so we're going to give her time. I don't know yet [if she'll be ready], but that's what we're going to go for - 23 players available for the game on Sunday."

The potential absence of James would be a significant blow to England's chances. The 23-year-old has already bagged two goals in the tournament and her creativity and dynamism have been a constant threat to opposing defences. Her ability to unlock tight defences will be sorely missed if she's sidelined.

Tactical Headaches for Wiegman

If James is ruled out, Wiegman will face a selection dilemma. Possible replacements include Chloe Kelly and 19-year-old Michelle Agyemang, both of whom have made significant impacts from the bench during the tournament. Kelly scored a crucial extra-time goal against Italy, while Agyemang has consistently troubled defenders with her pace and direct running.

However, Wiegman insists that she has several options and that the team has prepared for various scenarios. "It's a nice one [problem] to have, but you mention those two [Kelly and Agyemang] because they have been coming on and scoring goals. But I think Grace Clinton has also made a great contribution - she had to play in Keira [Walsh's] position when Keira had to come out, a very important position. Niamh Charles came in against Sweden and made a crucial header defensively. You can talk about more players who have made an impact coming on from the bench. It gives us headaches but I want to have those headaches."

Expert Analysis: Squad Depth Key for England

Former England international and BBC Sport pundit, Alex Scott, believes that England's squad depth will be crucial if James is unavailable. "While losing a player of Lauren's quality would undoubtedly be a setback, England have built a squad capable of adapting," Scott said. "Kelly and Agyemang have proven they can change a game, and Wiegman has shown a willingness to make tactical adjustments throughout the tournament. The key will be maintaining the team's structure and finding a way to exploit Spain's weaknesses."

Wiegman Focused on the Present

Wiegman's future has been the subject of speculation, particularly after Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham publicly stated that she is "not for sale at any price." However, the Dutch manager remained tight-lipped about her long-term plans. "I'm so 'in' these Euros - we play a final on Sunday and there is nothing else that I am thinking about," Wiegman said, deflecting questions about her future beyond the 2027 Women's World Cup.

Historical Context and the Road to the Final

England's journey to the Euro 2025 final has been marked by resilience and tactical flexibility. The Lionesses navigated a challenging group stage before overcoming Sweden in the quarter-finals and Italy in a tense semi-final. This marks England's second consecutive appearance in a major tournament final, following their World Cup final defeat to Spain last year. This Euros provides a chance for the Lionesses to avenge that defeat and secure their second major trophy under Wiegman, following their Euro 2022 triumph on home soil.

Analytical Viewpoint: Spain's Dominance and England's Challenge

Football analyst and author, Jen Cooper, notes that Spain's dominance in recent years presents a significant challenge to England. "Spain's possession-based style and technical quality have made them the benchmark in women's football," Cooper explains. "England will need to be disciplined defensively and clinical in attack to have a chance of winning. Countering Spain's midfield and limiting their opportunities to create chances will be key."

The final promises to be a captivating encounter between two of the world's best teams. Whether Lauren James features or not, England will need to be at their very best to overcome the reigning world champions and lift the Euro 2025 trophy.