A teenage football prodigy said she is “over the moon” after being picked to play for the England football team in a UEFA tournament.

Twickenham Academy pupil Lauren James, from Richmond, will represent the Lionesses’ U16 team against Italy, Spain and Finland in a week-long UEFA development tournament at Loughborough University next month.

The 15-year-old earned a call up after impressing for Arsenal youth team during their FA Youth Cup victory last season.

Lauren said: “I found out over email. I was over the moon, as you would expect. I didn't jump up and down or anything because I'm a calm person, but I was so happy.

“Playing for England is my dream. Now I'm just really excited, I can't wait."

Lauren, whose brother Reece plays for one of Chelsea Football Club’s youth teams, said support from her teachers has been crucial to her development.

She said she hoped her selection for England will help her earn a full-time professional contract with Arsenal.

She said: "When I turn 16 I can play for Arsenal. Hopefully being picked for England will help me to take that next big step of getting in the first team."

"To play at the top level you have to be focused. It is great feeling to be the best in your position in the country at your age group but there is a lot of competition for these places.”