“Has there never been a pair of opposite-gender siblings representing England in modern football history? It would be a wonderful achievement to accomplish. Hopefully, the opportunity will arise,” stated Lauren James early last week. Surprisingly, by the week’s end, the 20-year-old’s wish turned into reality. In the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 qualifier match between England and Austria, Lauren James entered the field in the 79th minute, substituting the talented Ella Toone. This marked a historic moment for Lauren James, as she and her brother Jeece James, the Chelsea star, became the first opposite-gender siblings to compete for the “Three Lions.”
Reece James and his younger sister, Laurent James
Dedicate for football since childhood
Their success is partially attributed to their esteemed father, Nigel James. Once a promising football talent with Luton Town and Southampton, a motorcycle accident led Nigel to put his playing career aside. He chose a different path, remaining connected to football as a youth coach and advisor. Slowly but surely, he built his reputation and established the Nigel James Elite Coaching program.
Their father play a huge role in their career
Reece and Lauren grew up in London, where football was their way of life. Similar to their father Nigel, their older brother Joshua also pursued a football career with Fulham and Reading. “We grew up as a trio,” Reece shared. “Josh learned from our dad. Then I started playing because I saw my older brother, and my younger sister played because she saw me.”
Lauren also revealed that memorable matches “dominated” their childhood memories. “All I know is football, football, and football,” she told The Telegraph. “My brothers introduced me to football. Whether it was when Josh was at Fulham or Reece at Chelsea’s academy, I was there, kicking the ball against the fence. I’ve always been passionate about playing football, and that passion has brought me to where I am today.”
Speaking to England Football, Reece shared, “Lauren and I have played in several tournaments together, where we’d be on the same team. We’ve won many tournaments together, and it’s amazing to play with her.
2 separate paths to success
Reece showcased his talent at an early age. Joining Chelsea’s Academy at 6 years old, he progressed through the ranks. However, his journey wasn’t without challenges. It took Reece some time to find his best position. Initially, he played as a forward before transitioning to midfield, honing his defensive abilities. Once he settled into the right-back position, nothing could stop Reece anymore.
At the start of the 2019-2020 season, under Frank Lampard’s management, Reece remained with Chelsea and was promoted to the first team. On September 25, 2019, in a match against Grimsby Town in the EFL Cup’s third round, Lampard fielded Reece from the start. He immediately left a significant mark by scoring a goal and providing an assist, contributing to a 7-1 victory for Chelsea. Since then, Reece has become an indispensable figure in Chelsea’s starting lineup. On September 5, 2022, Reece agreed to a 6-year contract extension with Chelsea, earning a weekly wage of £250,000, making him the highest-paid defender in the club’s history.
Lauren reuniting with her brother Reece
Lauren is two years younger than Reece, but her achievements are equally impressive. At the age of 13, she joined Arsenal, and due to playing alongside her brothers, she was encouraged to train with the boys’ team. Two years later, this physically strong forward made her debut for Arsenal’s women’s team, becoming the youngest player in the history of the “Gunners” women’s squad. However, it was her move to Manchester United’s women’s team in 2017 that truly set Lauren’s career alight. She scored 14 goals in 18 matches, helping MU earn promotion to the Barclays Women’s Super League. She ended the following season as the club’s top scorer. In the summer of 2022, Lauren transferred to Chelsea, reuniting with her brother Reece.
Win-Win sibling.
Reece and Lauren share a deep respect for each other’s achievements. “We’re each other’s biggest supporters. I attend his games, and he cheers me on whenever he can. When it comes to football-related matters, we understand what needs to be done, so we give each other the space to do it. Beyond football, we have a strong bond and a close relationship. Our small age gap of just 2 years plays a role. When he got called up to the England team, I felt like, ‘Yes, he deserves it, and I need to work hard to achieve my own goals,'” Lauren revealed.
Together they win many titles
Speaking in June, Reece expressed to England Football: “It’s fantastic that both of us are playing for Chelsea and competing for spots in the England team. That’s our goal, and we’re both determined to achieve it. She faced challenges last season due to injuries, but I’m confident she’ll regain her form this season and take the next steps.” On her personal Instagram page, Reece shared a photo of herself and her sister wearing England shirts, along with the message: “So proud.”