Chelsea have problems at the moment. In goal, at centre-back, in the dugout, and upstairs. Another issue that has arisen is in the treatment room, and Marc Cucurella has just explained why.
The club will almost certainly look to improve Liam Rosenior’s side in goal and at centre-back in the summer. Whether Rosenior retains his job remains to be seen after losing seven of his 19 matches.
There will be plenty to do this summer if Chelsea are to fix the issues they currently have. But another issue that cannot be helped is the growing number of players in the physio’s treatment room right now.
You are Liam Rosenior: What is ONE change that you would make during the international break?
FBL-EUR-C1-CHELSEA-TRAINING
Photo by Glyn KIRK / AFP via Getty Images
Reece James’ hamstring injury is a massive blow, and it was exacerbated by Trevoh Chalobah’s ankle problem against PSG. Perhaps Marc Cucurella’s latest claim explains why Chelsea are struggling.
Marc Cucurella: Reece James is the world’s strongest full-back
The England defender picked up the hamstring injury during the 1-0 defeat against Newcastle, and in the next two matches, Chelsea conceded six goals. Three to PSG in the second leg and three to Everton.
Marc Cucurella and Reece James of Chelsea during the warm up
Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
Without James, it is clear that Chelsea are far worse. Not only do the Blues lack his quality on the ball and his versatility in both defence and in midfield, but the 26-year-old’s leadership. Also, maybe his strength?
Cucurella was asked by The Athletic’s TikTok page to create his perfect full-back, and when it came to strength, the Spanish defender picked James as the physically strongest full-back currently in football.
The former Brighton defender picked himself for tackling and aerial duels, while Dani Carvajal was chosen for leadership. Trent Alexander-Arnold got his vote for crossing, and Alejandro Balde for speed.
When do Chelsea hope Reece James will return to action?
Having missed games against PSG and Everton, as well as a call-up to the England squad during the international break, James is expected to remain on the sidelines when Chelsea return to action.
SEMI-FINAL 1: Frank Lampard vs Cesc Fabregas
Frank Lampard and Cesc Fabregas
Credit: Leila Coker/Alessio Morgese/NurPhoto via Getty Images
When club football returns, Chelsea take on League One side Port Vale in the FA Cup, the first time the two sides have done battle in 97 years. Realistically, James was always likely to be rested for it anyway.
Then, Chelsea take on Man City at Stamford Bridge and that is a game Rosenior would love to have James available to play in. But reports say that Chelsea are hoping James will return against Manchester United.
That means another two games missed by James, but in the grand scheme of things, it is not the end of the world. James will be available – fingers crossed – for six of Chelsea’s remaining seven league games.
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