Lauren James' Struggles Exposed: The Dark Side of Online Abuse
Chelsea manager Emma Hayes expresses concern for forward Lauren James, who is currently struggling due to receiving distressing online abuse
Chelsea manager Emma Hayes expressed concern for Lauren James, stating that the forward is struggling after being subjected to "disgusting" online abuse. The abuse followed an incident in which James appeared to step on the foot of Arsenal player Lia Wälti during Sunday's Women's Super League game, which Chelsea ultimately lost 4-1.
James was not ejected from the game after the second-half incident. Chelsea voiced their condemnation of the online abuse and discrimination aimed at the England international, and also pledged to take action against anyone they can identify.
During a conversation with reporters on Wednesday, Hayes expressed her disgust at the level of abuse directed at James by the public, the media, and the press. She emphasized that James is a young player who is constantly working behind the scenes to improve.
The language used to unfairly criticize her is unacceptable. Other players facing similar challenges don't receive the same level of abuse. It's possible that she may feel racially profiled in this situation. It's important to recognize her talent and continuous growth.
"I believe that while she certainly makes mistakes, some of the negative and highly inaccurate discussions that occur during commentary, games, and on social media are issues that everyone should take a moment to consider."
James was yellow carded for treading on Lia Wälti.
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Hayes, the upcoming head coach of the US Women's National Team, mentioned that James is struggling after the abuse she received. She referenced the red card James got at the Women's World Cup for stamping on the back of Nigeria's Michelle Alozie earlier this year.
Hayes commented on the young player's mistake during the summer, emphasizing the ongoing learning process. She also expressed concern about the negative impact of social media on the younger generation, condemning the use of hurtful language and name-calling.
"And then you add racism in that for her, you can understand why her mental health is not in the very best place this week."
Hayes watches on during Chelsea's heavy defeat against Arsenal.
Alex Pantling/The FA/Getty Images
FIFA and FIFPRO's report revealed that players from England endured nearly 1,000 abusive posts during the Womens World Cup, making it the third-highest targeted nation after the US and Argentina. The US team, however, received more than double the amount of abusive messages than any other nation at the tournament, with the peak of abuse occurring when the team was eliminated by Sweden in a penalty shootout.
