Reece James emulates sister Lauren with reckless kick out on Joao Pedro, echoing Lioness star’s infamous stamp at World Cup last year

Reece James evoked memories of his sister’s red card at last year’s World Cup after he was sent off for a reckless kick out in Chelsea’s 2-1 win at Brighton on Wednesday night.

The Blues captain made a spectacular return from injury to register an assist in Chelsea’s 3-2 victory against Nottingham Forest on Saturday, and was introduced off the bench at the Amex Stadium with his side 2-0 up and just over 20 minutes remaining as he continued his comeback.

However, his night was brought to a premature end in the 88th minute when he was tripped by Joao Pedro and kicked out at the Brighton forward as he went to ground.

Following a VAR check, James was shown a red card, meaning he will not be available for Chelsea’s final game of the season at home to Bournemouth on Sunday.

It was a similar rush of blood to the head that his sister, Lauren, suffered from at the World Cup while representing the Lionesses.

Following a VAR check, James was shown a straight red card for his moment of madness

The incident evoked memories of his sister Lauren (right) being sent off at last year’s World Cup for stamping on Nigeria’s Michelle Alozie

Lauren, 22, scored three goals in the group stages at last year’s tournament, but was then sent off during England’s last 16 clash with Nigeria for stamping on Michelle Alozie.

Following backlash on social media, the England forward, who also plays for Chelsea’s women’s team, restricted her comments on Instagram. 

She apologised for the stamp, while Alozie took to social media to call for fans to stop sending abusive messages to her opponent.

Alozie posted on X: ‘Abeg, rest. 

‘We are playing on the world’s stage. This game is one of passion, insurmountable emotions, and moments.

‘All respect for Lauren James.’

Despite going down to 10 players, England went on to beat Nigeria and reached the final, which Lauren appeared in as a substitute. However, she was unable to inspire Sarina Wiegman’s side to glory as they lost to Spain.

Chelsea also overcame James’ moment of madness to beat Brighton on Wednesday, and they are now in pole position to finish in the top six and secure a place in next season’s Europa League.

A point against Bournemouth on Sunday will be enough to seal sixth spot, while Mauricio Pochettino’s side still have a slim chance of finishing fifth if they beat Bournemouth and Tottenham lose to already-relegated Sheffield United.