'They're the levels I'll keep reminding her of' - Chelsea boss Emma Hayes fires veiled warning to Lauren James after hat-trick heroics against Man Utd as Lionesses star is lauded

The England international has been in stunning form for the Blues this season, as they seek to defend a domestic Super League crown. James has made a habit of finding the target when Chelsea’s women’s side take to the field at Stamford Bridge, and did so again when dominating a meeting with United.

Hayes is delighted to see James firing on all cylinders, as the 22-year-old forward unlocks her full potential, and has told Sky Sports that efforts will be made in west London to ensure that these lofty standards are maintained: “When Lauren plays at that level, she is an outstanding football player. They are the levels that I will keep reminding her of. I think she was brilliant for the team. I’m sure she will continue to put her best foot forward for the rest of the season.”

James has hit a serious purple patch, despite having never previously been prolific, and Hayes added on seeing training ground work pay off: “I think the fact she has scored nine goals in five games – I think she has scored nine goals prior to that in four years! You are starting to see the work that has gone on in the background, and she deserves all the credit.”

Chelsea have cemented their standing at the top of the WSL table – as they sit three points clear of Manchester City – and the likes of James will determined to land more major silverware for Hayes before she departs in the summer to take charge of the USWNT.