Chelsea condemn online racist abuse of James

Chelsea have condemned racial abuse directed towards forward Lauren James following Sunday's Women's Super League clash with Arsenal.

James, 22, was at the centre of controversy during the game after appearing to stamp on Arsenal midfielder Lia Walti.

The England international was shown a yellow card after the incident in the 70th minute at the Emirates Stadium and was substituted by manager Emma Hayes soon after.

WSL champs Chelsea were trailing 3-1 at the time and went on to lose 4-1.

A statement from the Blues said: "Chelsea Football Club condemns the online abuse directed towards Lauren James following Sunday's Barclays Women's Super League fixture against Arsenal.

"The club stands strongly against any form of abuse and discriminatory behaviour. Discrimination has no place at Chelsea Football Club or in any of our communities.

"We will take action against any individual that we can identify. We stand with you, Lauren."

Those sentiments have also been echoed by the FA. 

A post on X, formerly Twitter, from the England national team account said: "We stand alongside you LJ. Online abuse and discriminatory behaviour has no place in football. 

"This abhorrent behaviour must have consequences."

Defeat left Chelsea level on points with Arsenal but still top of the table thanks to their superior goal difference.

The Blues face Hacken in the Champions League on Thursday and will start the night two points behind the Group D leaders. 

A win will see them leapfrog the Swedish side as the departing Hayes looks to end her European drought before she takes over the United States Women's team.