Chelsea's Lauren James Faces 'Disgusting' Online Abuse

Manager Emma Hayes suggests racial profiling and disproportionate criticism, comparing James' situation to David Beckham's post-1998 World Cup treatment.

• Chelsea manager Emma Hayes has revealed that forward Lauren James is 'not in a good place' following online abuse, which she describes as 'disgusting'.
• The abuse began after James appeared to stamp on Arsenal player Lia Wälti during a Women's Super League game, which Chelsea lost 4-1.
• Hayes suggests that James is a victim of 'racial profiling' by the media and fans, and that the level of abuse she has received is disproportionate compared to other players who have had their own challenging moments.
• Hayes also compares James' situation to that of David Beckham after his red card during the 1998 men's World Cup, suggesting that James is being targeted by opposition players.
• A report from FIFA and FIFPRO identified nearly 1,000 abusive posts targeting players from England during the Women's World Cup, the third-highest of any nation behind the US and Argentina.

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