Lauren James teams up with McDonald's as Chelsea star follows in footsteps of Jude Bellingham & Virgil van Dijk for 'nationwide initiative'

The 22-year-old has become an ambassador for McDonald's 'Fun Football', a programme that will provide free training sessions with qualified coaches across the UK this year.

James is in good company, as she joins Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham and Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk in promoting the scheme.

Announcing her partnership with the scheme, James said: “I want to inspire as many girls and boys as possible to play football. When I was growing up, I didn’t have those role models to look up to in the women’s game. That’s why I’m working with McDonald’s Fun Football to help children from all backgrounds play the game.

“Having fun playing football is the most important thing and you can see how much it meant to the kids in the session today. To have a chance to express yourself, in a safe and welcoming environment, for an hour is so important at their age.”

In an era where football has become expensive for many families the scheme offers professional coaching that many children would struggle to otherwise access. With high-profile stars' backing, it's hoped that the initiative will promote a lasting legacy of participation at grassroots level.

James is well and truly into the business end of the season professionally as her Chelsea side face Ajax in the Champions League at Stamford Bridge tonight followed by a FA WSL Cup Final against Arsenal at Molineux on Sunday.