‘All my love and respect’ – England star Lauren James apologises to Nigeria’s Michelle Alozie for World Cup stamp
Lauren James has expressed her sincere apologies and admiration for Michelle Alozie after the incident that occurred during the World Cup match on Monday. Despite receiving a straight red card for stamping on Alozie’s back while she was on the ground, James has shown nothing but love and respect towards her opponent.
The 21-year-old Chelsea forward was sent off in the 87th minute, leaving England with only ten players for the entire extra-time. However, they managed to reach the penalty shootout and emerged victorious.
Alozie, who missed her penalty, took to Twitter to emphasize that she holds no grudges against James. She acknowledged the passion and emotions involved in the game and expressed her respect for James.
In response, James replied to Alozie’s post, expressing her love and respect for her opponent. She apologized for her actions and promised to learn from the experience. James also extended her apologies to England fans and her teammates, stating that playing with and for them is her greatest honor.
Unfortunately, James will not be available for the quarter-final against Colombia due to her suspension. However, manager Sarina Wiegman refrained from criticizing her star player, recognizing her youth and the intense nature of the game. Wiegman believes that James did not intend to harm anyone and will undoubtedly learn from this incident.
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England and Manchester United star Lauren James recently found herself in the middle of a scandal at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. During a physical match with Nigeria, James stamped on the foot of her opponent Michelle Alozie. The incident came with the potential of a red card, but refereeing staff deemed the action to be mild enough to warrant only a yellow card.
The incident and the decision not to dish out more heavy punishment led to a series of reactions both on and off the pitch. With pressure mounting, James took to Twitter to apologise to Alozie following the game. She wrote, “I would like to apologize to Michelle Alozie for the accidental stamp, all my love and respect [sic].”
The attack of her opponent was not Lauren’s typical behaviour. She is known as far and away one of the best footballers in the world as well as a role model to many young girls in England who hope to break through into elite football. In Norman Smurthwaite’s biography of James he writes, “She’s a determined young woman, focused on her success on and off the pitch.”
For her apology to Alozie, James was highly praised. One Twitter user said, “The grace and sportsmanship this young lady displays is superb. Respect to Lauren James.” It came as no surprise that James was quick to issue an apology for what was an extremely intense and unfortunate accident. She is an experienced player and always strives to be an example for the next generation of stars.
Though the stigma of the incident will live with James for some time, the apology and grace she displayed was the right step. James’ apology shows that for young players, taking ownership of one’s mistakes is key to maintain respect and success. For James, she will continue to be one of the most celebrated female footballers on the planet.