James spent four formative years of her career with Chelsea, honing her undeniable talents up to the Under-14 age group. After spells at Arsenal and then Manchester United, she returned home in the summer of 2021 and has developed into one of the world's most feared forwards.

She has made 105 appearances for the Blues, scoring 31 goals. Silverware has followed. A lot of it, in fact. During her time with the club, James has won the Women's Super League on four occasions, the Women's FA Cup three times, and has lifted the League Cup.

There has been success on the international stage, too. James has claimed three trophies with England, the most important of which was last summer's European Championship.

Still only 24 years old, there is still much to come from James in the years ahead. And she is delighted that her Chelsea journey, which started at the age of six, will continue.

'Chelsea has always been my home,' said James after signing her new contract at our Cobham training base.' And it just means so much to my family and me.

'I started coming here at the age of six, and to be still living my dream here, and to have extended my time here, it makes me really proud.'

The day has proved a momentous one for the James family. In addition to Lauren signing a new contract, her brother and men's team captain, Reece, has also penned a new deal with the Blues.

It's rare to have a brother and a sister playing professionally. But both being key figures at the same club is unique. And it's one of the main reasons why Lauren is proud of what both have achieved in their careers to date.

'I’m really pleased for Reece too, as he’s also signed a new contract with Chelsea. It’s always been his dream to stay here as well.

'It’s not been an easy journey for either of us. It’s taken a lot of hard work and sacrifices for us to get to this point, and we’re very grateful that we are here now, and we are extending our stay.'