England’s bid to retain its UEFA Women's Euro Championship title has been boosted by one of its star players nearing a return to full fitness. Lauren James, who was a major doubt ahead of Sarina Wiegman’s squad selection,

France will put on a united front when they play England in their Women's Euro group opener in Zurich on Saturday, the team said on Friday, despite former captain Wendie Renard and record goal-scorer Eugenie Le Sommer being left out of the tournament squad.

England begin their European Championships title defence against France on Saturday and their opponents have been sweating on the fitness of a key player before the game