The dynamic attacker was crucial to our bright start in front of the biggest home attendance in Chelsea Women’s history as James’ powerful strike found the back of the net within 15 minutes.

Supported by a brace from Sjoeke Nusken, the Blues romped to a 3-0 lead before the interval, holding firm after the break, despite an Arsenal consolation goal, to take all three points in the derby.

Speaking after the match, the 22-year-old was ecstatic with the victory, feeling a sense of justice following defeat at the Emirates Stadium in the reverse fixture back in December.

‘I don’t think it’s sunk in yet,’ James began. ‘A win against any team always feels amazing, especially at Stamford Bridge and even more so in a London derby, especially after what happened in December.

‘It just pumped us up a little bit more. You’re coming to our house and it’s not going to be easy. It was a nice feeling today to go out there and show what we’re about.

‘Everyone worked very hard and it showed on the pitch – everyone was up for it. With the early goals in the first half, we knew Arsenal would be back out in the second half to try and get goals back. We had to stay focused.’

Employed as a number nine during the match at the Bridge, James insisted that she is happy to play wherever she is required by manager Emma Hayes.

‘Anywhere on the pitch, I feel quite free,’ she continued. ‘It’s obviously different and I have to stay high and a bit more central, but I think at times, as you saw, I was floating in different positions. It’s quite similar to when I’m a ten.

‘It was actually quite last minute [when Hayes] said that I was in the nine, but it doesn’t affect me too much because as long as I’m on the pitch, I can play my game. She likes me to stay central, but she also allows me to roam as long as someone else is filling in my position.

‘Everyone was watching us tonight and waiting for us to slip up. To keep the top three on their toes is good. I think with the fans it’s an amazing atmosphere and I just feel free.’