A pair of Lauren James strikes have been shortlisted for the Barclays Women’s Super League Goal of the Month award for January, with the Blues forward continuing her fine form and adding to an impressive personal tally.

The 22-year-old netted five goals in two league games last month, including a hat-trick against Manchester United at Stamford Bridge and a brace against Brighton & Hove Albion at the Broadfield Stadium which helped us maintain a three-point gap at the top of the WSL standings.

James’ second goal against Manchester United has been nominated for this monthly prize. Nathalie Bjorn produced a perfectly weighted aerial pass which fell beautifully for James, who rifled the resulting effort past Mary Earps.

After a goalless first half against Brighton, James unlocked their defence inside the opening minute of the second. Niamh Charles pulled the ball back for James who smashed a first-time left footed strike into the top corner, which also makes the WSL Goal of the Month shortlist for January.

James will be rivalled for the award by strikes from Taylor Hinds of Liverpool, Grace Clinton of Tottenham Hotspur, Janice Cayman of Leicester City and Vivianne Miedema of Arsenal, with the winner to be announced in due course.

Voting for Goal of the Month is now open and the vote will close at 10am on Monday 5 February. You can cast your votes for Lauren by clicking here.