FIFA has decided to ban England forward Lauren James for two matches.
This means she will be available to play for her country again at the ongoing Women’s World Cup should the Lionesses reach the final.
This comes after FIFA’s disciplinary panel ruled that James’ sending off against Nigeria was not a serious act of foul play.
James, who has been England’s player of the tournament so far, was shown a red card in the 87th minute of their Round of 16 win over Nigeria on Monday after stamping on the back of defender Michelle Alozie.
Despite being reduced to ten players, England went on to win the match 4-2 via penalty.
As a result of the red card, the Chelsea star was automatically suspended for England’s upcoming quarter-final against Colombia on Saturday while it had the potential to turn into a three-game ban – or more – if deemed violent conduct by FIFA’s disciplinary panel.
On Tuesday, England confirmed they had decided to appeal a lengthier ban and put forward representation on behalf of the 21-year-old player, with FIFA now confirming the decision of the disciplinary hearing which concluded a two-game ban would suffice.