Lauren James has stressed that England must concentrate on the task ahead rather than dwell on their qualifying campaign, as Sarina Wiegman's side prepare for a crucial World Cup play-off double-header against Greece.
The Lionesses finished second in Group 3 behind Spain on goal difference, forcing them into a two-legged play-off tie. England will travel to face Greece away before hosting the return fixture at home, with progression securing a spot at next summer's World Cup in Brazil.
Should England overcome Greece, they will advance to face either Slovakia or Ukraine in the second round of play-offs, with that winner earning their place at the tournament.
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 the squad's mindset is firmly fixed on the immediate challenge ahead. The Chelsea forward emphasised that winning these matches is non-negotiable if England are to reach Brazil.
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 currently performing at a high level for her club. The Blues sit second in the league table, having dropped only two points across their opening five matches of the season.
Despite her impressive form, the forward believes her peak is still ahead of her. She has been named Chelsea's player of the year for 2024 and continues to develop her game under manager Sonia Bompastor.
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.
James added that she approaches every match, whether for club or country, with the same intensity and desire to prove herself.
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
Chelsea midfielder Lexi Potter has admitted she was taken aback by her first England call-up for the World Cup play-off fixtures. The 20-year-old has impressed in the early stages of the season after receiving regular starts under Bompastor's management.
Potter has featured in all four of Chelsea's league victories this campaign and scored in a 2-0 victory over Birmingham last month. Her breakthrough at club level has now earned her recognition at international level.
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.
The midfielder revealed that she learned of her selection while at home, and immediately shared the news with her mother. Potter explained her approach to her career and how she manages expectations.
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.
According to Sky Sports, Potter has praised the influence of her Chelsea midfield partner Keira Walsh following her call-up. Walsh has been instrumental in helping the young midfielder settle into the professional game at Stamford Bridge.
Walsh herself has described Potter as "exceptional" and "really intelligent", noting that the midfielder's presence makes her feel comfortable when playing alongside her. Potter's immediate focus is on contributing to the team during training and the upcoming fixtures.
The road to Brazil
England's path to the 2027 World Cup in Brazil runs through Greece in the first round of play-offs. The four League A group winners—Denmark, France, Germany and Spain—have already qualified directly for the finals, leaving Europe's remaining places to be decided through play-offs.
England's first match against Greece is scheduled for 9 October at 17:30 BST in Crete, with the return leg taking place on 13 October at 19:30 BST at Leicester's King Power Stadium. If Wiegman's side progress, they will face either Slovakia or Ukraine in the second round between 26 November and 5 December, with exact dates to be confirmed.
The play-off structure means that England cannot afford any slip-ups if they are to secure their place at next summer's tournament. Both matches against Greece will be crucial in determining whether the Lionesses can bounce back from their qualifying campaign and reach Brazil.
