Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
A graphic showing Jordan Henderson's match statistics (goals, assists, key passes and pass completion rate) against for Chelsea FC against Bournemouth. Image shows Jordan Henderson celebrating.
Credit: Photo by Chris Lee – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Photo by Chris Lee - Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Photo by Chris Lee - Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Photo by Jacques Feeney/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
Photo by Jacques Feeney/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
Photo by Alexander Canillas/MB Media/Getty Images
Photo by Alexander Canillas/MB Media/Getty Images
Photo by Jacques Feeney/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
Photo by Jacques Feeney/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
Journalist Sebastien Vidal has claimed on X that James is a doubt for Chelsea’s trip to the Hill Dickinson this weekend. However, he could be available for the Blues’ London derby against Tottenham Hotspur towards the end of October.
James is a key player for Chelsea, but he was not missed against Bournemouth. The 26-year-old has been playing in midfield this season because of injuries, but he has not been entirely convincing.
Moises Caicedo came in for him on Saturday and struck up an effective partnership with Jordan Henderson. Caicedo swept up well, while Henderson was a real threat going forward.
The 36-year-old scored twice and provided an assist. After the game, Henderson’s England teammate Jude Bellingham labelled him a “legend”.
Going forward, James should not be playing too many more matches in midfield. Caicedo is fit again, while Chelsea could sign Alex Scott in the new year.
Romeo Lavia has also managed to stay fit this season and has been brilliant when he has played. Lavia shone while on international duty with Belgium.