Chelsea ace Lauren James and Houston Dash star Ebony Salmon called up to Lionesses squad

LAUREN JAMES has been named in England’s squad before the Euros winners’ World Cup qualifying duels with Austria and Luxembourg.

Ebony Salmon – who has been in clinical form for US club Houston Dash – is also included in the 23-strong group.

James, 20, – who is the sister of Blues and Three Lions full-back Reece – received her first senior international call-up ahead of an England camp in November 2020.

The Kingsmeadow starlet netted a classy goal during Chelsea’s pre-season clash with Lyon this month, which the French side eventually won on penalties.

The forward made five top-flight appearances for the WSL champs last term and is yet to make her senior Lionesses debut.

England boss Wiegman, 52, said: “We have been following her since I came in and my former colleagues too.

“She didn’t play that much but she did play some. We know she’s a very talented player.

“She also had a very good prep with Chelsea, playing minutes, and we wanted to give her a chance to show what she can do with the national team.

Salmon, 21, who skippered England’s Under-23s to a 3-0 victory against the Netherlands in April, has one senior international cap.

The forward made her debut as a second-half sub in a 6-0 friendly defeat of Northern Ireland last year.

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The former Bristol City and Racing Louisville striker has been on fire for Houston Dash, netting eight goals in eight top-flight appearances this year.

Wiegman added: She had her spot in the Under-23s. She moved to Houston Dash, she did so well there.

“She’s just a real goalscorer, that’s what she has shown over the summer.

“We really want to see where she’s at now. She’s done so well so we really want to give her a chance and show where she’s at with our team.”

Katie Zelem makes her return to the England squad along with Arsenal star Jordan Nobbs who is now fit following a knee injury.

Manchester City keeper Sandy MacIver also returns with Hannah Hampton absent due to some personal issues.

But Chloe Kelly and Fran Kirby both miss England’s September clashes with Austria and Luxembourg due to injury.

Wiegman said: “Chloe’s (injury) is just a small thing but it’s too early to bring her in and let her play.

“She needs a little bit more time but it’s not too bad. Fran has a foot injury.

“I think she’ll be alright but she hasn’t had that much training at all so she needs a little bit more time.”

Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk