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England midfielder Lauren James has been handed a two-match suspension after being sent off against Nigeria in the round of 16 at the Women's World Cup.
- James received a red card against Nigeria
- She will not be available again unless England qualifies for the final
- England plays Colombia in the quarterfinals
James was red-carded for violent conduct after standing on Nigeria defender Michelle Alozie during England's win on penalties.
As expected, she will miss the quarterfinal match against Colombia on Saturday.
James will also not be available for the semifinals should England advance to the last four.
If they reach the semifinals, the Lionesses could potentially face Australia, provided the Matildas defeat France in the quarterfinals.
But after much speculation that James might pick up a three-match ban and miss the rest of the tournament, the shorter ban means she would be available for the final if England qualifies for the decider.
James had been one of the stars of the tournament, scoring three goals and providing three more assists as England topped Group D.
She has apologised for her conduct in getting a red card.
"Obviously she's [James] disappointed with what happened on the day," England teammate Beth England said.
"It was a split-second, emotional moment that happened. We've got around her.
"It is good that she's acknowledged that and put her apology out."
AAP
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