Chelsea manager Emma Hayes applauded Lauren James' performance against Manchester United.

The England forward struck a hat-trick at Stamford Bridge as the Women's Super League leaders dealt a blow to United's hopes of challenging for the title.

James, 22, netted twice inside the opening 23 minutes before Hayley Ladd grabbed a goal back for the visitors before half-time.

After seeing her star attacker wrap up the points and complete her treble with five minutes to play, Hayes highlighted James' role in the absence of injured striker Sam Kerr.

She said: "She's shown she can do it as a No10, a No9. Her hold-up play is unbelievable. 

"Of course [we need a No 9] but everyone's got to take their turns, Lauren today, Mia Fishel last week.

"We were superb as a team, in the first half in particular. 

"I made brave decisions today, particularly at the back. I can't help it, it's what I'll do — I'll make brave decisions."

Hayes also offered an update on her successor, who will fill the English coach's role when she leaves at the end of the season to take the reins of the United States women's national team.

She added: "[Chelsea general manager] Paul Green is leading the search but it's important they make that decision, not me.

"I don't want someone ringing me up in two years asking about it!"

James was pleased to make an impact at Stamford Bridge, having moved ahead of Manchester City striker Khadija Shaw in the WSL top scorer standings.

She said: "It's always tough against Manchester United but with fans behind us it helped.

"We love playing here, you could tell everyone was up for it."

Hayes' side return to Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night when they host Real Madrid in the Champions League before a WSL trip to Brighton next Saturday.