Lauren James has stressed that England cannot dwell on their qualifying disappointment and must concentrate entirely on overcoming Greece in the World Cup play-off double-header to secure their place at next summer's tournament in Brazil.
The Lionesses finished runners-up in qualifying Group 3 behind Spain on goal difference, forcing them into a two-legged play-off against the Greeks. The tie against Greece marks the first senior meeting between the nations' women's teams, with the first leg taking place in Crete on Friday 9 October at 17:30 BST and the return fixture at Leicester's King Power Stadium on Tuesday 13 October at 19:30 BST.
Should Sarina Wiegman's side progress past Greece, they will face either Slovakia or Ukraine in the second-round play-off, with the victors earning qualification for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.
We can't change what happened and that's where we are now. I think we have to just try to look forward to win these games.
James told Sky Sports News that dwelling on past results would prove counterproductive. The Chelsea forward emphasised the importance of maintaining focus on the immediate challenge ahead.
That's always our goal at the end of the day, and the position we're in at the moment is, we have to win in order to get to somewhere. The World Cup's a massive tournament that you always want to be a part of and it's everyone's dream from a little kid. So, to go there and get another opportunity again, it's obviously something we're all trying to aim for.
James, who extended her contract with Chelsea earlier this year, is performing at a high level for her club. The Blues sit second in the Women's Super League table, having dropped just two points across their opening five matches. Despite her impressive form, the forward believes there remains significant room for improvement in her game.
I'm always looking forward to coming into camp with England and getting another opportunity to play games for the country. I think it always helps massively when you're doing well with your club, which obviously is why you get called up for your country. Hopefully I can just build the momentum and keep going.
Named Chelsea's player of the year in 2024, James stressed her commitment to performing at the highest level whenever she takes to the pitch.
Every time I put on a shirt, whether it's for club or country, I always want to just show what I'm made of. The more you play, the more you have rhythm and I like to just play free. And I think the best is still yet to come. I'm just trying to enjoy my football and look forward to the things that are coming up.
Potter's surprise call-up marks breakthrough moment
Chelsea midfielder Lexi Potter has admitted her astonishment at receiving her first England call-up for the World Cup play-off fixtures. The 20-year-old has made an impressive start to the campaign under Blues manager Sonia Bompastor, earning regular starts and contributing to Chelsea's strong early-season form.
Potter has featured in all four of Chelsea's Women's Super League victories this season and scored in a 2-0 triumph over Birmingham last month. The 23-player squad includes returning captain Leah Williamson, whilst Ella Toone and Chloe Kelly were left out.
I've been really lucky and grateful for the opportunities I've been given at Chelsea and when I got the call, I was really surprised.
Potter revealed that she learned of her selection whilst at home in her bedroom, before rushing downstairs to share the news with her mother.
I like to stay focused every day and be the best version of myself and don't like to think too far ahead. I was at home, I still live at home so I was just in my room watching my phone a bit and then when I got the call I was really happy and went downstairs and told my mum and she was really proud of me.
The midfielder has credited her Chelsea teammates with helping her development. Potter praised the influence of Chelsea midfield partner Keira Walsh after receiving her first England call-up, highlighting the importance of playing alongside experienced performers. According to VAVEL, Potter said she was "really grateful" for her opportunities at Chelsea and wants to help England "in whatever way I can."
The road to Brazil
England's path to the 2027 World Cup now runs through Greece and potentially Slovakia or Ukraine. England won five of their six qualifying matches, but Spain took the group's automatic qualification place. If the Lionesses overcome Greece, the second-round play-off against Slovakia or Ukraine will be contested over two legs between 26 November and 5 December, with the winners securing their spot at the tournament in Brazil.
