Nigeria's Michelle Alozie (left) and England's Lauren James vie for the ball during the Women's World Cup round of 16 soccer match between England and Nigeria in Brisbane, Australia, on Aug 7, 2023. (PHOTO / AP)

Chelsea have condemned the online abuse directed towards England forward Lauren James following Sunday's 4-1 loss at Arsenal, the Women's Super League club said on Tuesday.

The 22-year-old escaped a straight red card for appearing to stamp on Arsenal midfielder Lia Walti in the 70th minute, five minutes before being replaced by Mia Fishel in the top-of-the-table clash at the Emirates Stadium.

"The club stands strongly against any form of abuse and discriminatory behavior. Discrimination has no place at Chelsea Football Club or in any of our communities," Chelsea said in a statement.

"We will take action against any individual that we can identify. We stand with you, Lauren."

READ MORE: England's James gets two-match ban for stamp, red card

The defeat erased Chelsea's three-point lead at the top of the standings. They have 22 points from nine games, level with second-placed Arsenal and three points ahead of Manchester City.

Chelsea next travel to Bristol City on Sunday.