James out for minimum of five games - Bompastor

Lauren James has a hamstring injury and will miss at least five matches, including Chelsea's games against Everton and Manchester City, and is doubtful for England's World Cup qualifying play-offs in December.

Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor confirmed that Lauren James suffered a hamstring injury during the 6-0 win over Charlton Athletic and will be sidelined for at least the next five matches. The 25-year-old came off in the 35th minute and underwent a scan that revealed the hamstring problem.

James will miss Chelsea's upcoming fixtures including Everton's visit to Stamford Bridge on Saturday and a crucial match against champions Manchester City next weekend. The injury also casts serious doubt on her availability for England's World Cup qualifying play-off matches against Ukraine in December.

Bompastor expressed confidence in her squad's ability to cope without James, noting that multiple players contributed to goals in the Charlton match and that every player on the pitch had a shot on goal. Chelsea remain top of the WSL table despite the loss of their key forward.