Chelsea defender Reece James is absent from Tuesday's Champions League last 16 second-leg clash against Paris Saint-Germain
20:15, 17 Mar 2026Updated 20:28, 17 Mar 2026
Liam Rosenior speaks
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Liam Rosenior has revealed why Reece James is missing for Chelsea(Image: TNT Sports)
Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior has confirmed that Reece James is absent from Tuesday's clash against Paris Saint-Germain due to a hamstring injury. The full-back picked up the problem during Saturday's 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United, although Rosenior revealed he could still play a large portion of the season.
He said: "He’s a top player, he’s a world-class footballer. It’s a real shame for him. He did it very late in the Newcastle game.
"It’s a big blow, but Reece will be back, he’ll recover really really well, he’s a top captain and leader. He’s still got a chance to make a good chunk of this season up.”
On the injury being his hamstring again, he added: “Yeah, sometimes these things happen, and you just have to make sure that they don’t happen again. We’ve got an outstanding medical team here, he’s in the best stands, and hopefully he can rehab as quick as possible to help us on the pitch.”
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The news is a major blow to Chelsea. The Blues captain recently signed a new six-year deal at Stamford Bridge, committing his future to the club until 2032.
James was close to entering the final two years of his contract, but has now penned an extension that is aligned with the incentivised wage structure in place since the club was bought in 2022.
Reece James
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Reece James has suffered a hamstring injury(Image: Johnny Fidelin/Icon Sport)
And the England international insisted there was not too much of a decision to be made when it came to prolonging his time in west London. The 26-year-old expressed confidence that Chelsea are on track to compete for the major trophies once again.
He said: "I came through at this club. This was the one and only club I wanted to play for. I've won major trophies here.
"Why would I not extend? This is my home, my family are here.
"The club is on the right path to winning trophies consistently again and I believe we will do that. That's why I'm still here and re-signed."
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The defender has turned down offers to move elsewhere in the past, perhaps where he could have earned more money. James, though, is not solely driven by the financial side of football and explained a deeper connection at the club.
He added: "I mean, this club is my home, this is the place I love and want to be.
"Could I get more money elsewhere? Maybe, but money is not the be-all and end-all. Happiness and where I want to be means more to me. I want to win here, and we will win here."