Chelsea captain Reece James can’t seem to catch a break when it comes to injuries.
There’s no doubt that Reece James is one of the most talented individuals in the Chelsea squad, but his career has been stop-start in recent years because of numerous different injury problems.
The 24-year-old right-back missed the opening months of the 2024/25 campaign due to suspension and injury before playing four first-team matches for Enzo Maresca’s side. Unfortunately, he’s now suffered another hamstring injury and fans have been patiently waiting to hear the results of a scan.
Chelsea could put James up for sale next summer, which would be crushing news. The academy graduate bleeds blue and has a great connection with the fans, but how much longer can the club persist with him?
Reece James of Chelsea (L) applauds the fans after the draw in the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Arsenal FC at Stamford Bridge on Nov...
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Chelsea skipper Reece James facing several weeks on the sidelines
According to The Telegraph, Chelsea’s James is not expected back from his latest injury before the end of December.
It is explained that the Blues will continue to support their defender through another physical and mental battle.
The report says that Chelsea haven’t pout an exact timeframe on the Englishman’s return and haven’t confirmed the outcome of the scan. However, there’s a chance he may not return to the side until the New Year.
It’s worth adding that James is believed to be ‘devastated’ with the latest in a long line of injury setbacks.
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Marc Cucurella says Chelsea are “very sad” with the James setback, which is turning out to be one negative in a fairly positive season so far.
Chelsea have no time to lose with Josh Acheampong
Chelsea’s fixture schedule from now until the New Year is hectic, playing 10 more games across all competitions during what’s left of 2024. Therefore, Maresca is going to need to rotate his players and make the most of his squad.
With James potentially sidelined for the rest of the calendar year, Malo Gusto suddenly has a huge job on as the only other recognised right-back.
The Blues do have Wesley Fofana and Axel Disasi who can cover at right-back, but this injury news only makes it more important that the club resolve the Josh Acheampong saga.
Acheampong, 18, is a talented young right-back at the club who could provide cover for Gusto. However, he’s frozen out of the picture right now over a contract dispute.
Chelsea are making progress with the Acheampong contract negotiations. It would be great if this is finalised in the coming days and he can be reintegrated into Maresca’s squad.
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