'It's disgusting' - Chelsea boss Emma Hayes accuses online abusers of 'racially profiling' Lauren James and compares treatment to David Beckham's after infamous 1998 World Cup red card

James was at the centre of controversy as she was booked, and quickly substituted, after appearing to stamp on Arsenal player Lia Walti. Chelsea have condemned the racist abuse levelled at the England international, and Hayes has now claimed that the winger is being "racially profiled", by both fans and "the media".

James has developed into a vital player for both club and country, and Hayes believes there are parallels with David Beckham, who was vilified for receiving a red card against Argentina in 1998. She has also admitted that James' mental health is suffering because of the abuse she has received, as Chelsea prepare to play Hacken in the Champions League on Thursday.

Speaking in defence of James, Hayes said: "It’s disgusting the amount of abuse she’s received from the public, the media, the press. We’re talking about a young player here who’s always working to learn in the background. Some of the language used to vilify her externally I think is unacceptable.

"I don’t see the same level of abuse attributed to other players in the league who might have had their own challenging moments. It’s fair to say in her position I’d be thinking there is racial profiling going on. It’s important for the country to recognise she’s an important talent who’s learning all the time and she makes mistakes.

"I think some of the derogatory and misleading conversations that are happening during the commentary, during the games on social is something everyone should reflect on."

She added: "Every opponent tries everything possible to get Lauren red carded, that’s been clear in every game we’ve played and she has to learn to handle that. When she gets antagonised in a certain way, managing emotions comes from maturity and that isn’t there yet with her.

"It reminds me very much of David Beckham when he got red carded in the World Cup. The treatment of Lauren sometimes is very similar. We have to realise that for a young person in the day and age of social media, it’s unbelievably vitriolic. Nasty language and labelling, name calling. I think it goes over the edge. You add racism into that for her and you understand why her mental health isn’t in the very best place this week."

It remains to be seen if James will be involved against Hacken after Hayes' comments. She may well be given some time off before returning this weekend against Bristol City on Sunday.