Reece James set for another spell out as Chelsea confirm latest injury blow

The right back sustained a hamstring injury in the 2-0 defeat at Everton

Jamie Braidwood
Tuesday 12 December 2023 13:16 GMT
Comments
Mauricio Pochettino: Chelsea need to improve in next transfer window

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Chelsea captain Reece James is set for another spell on the sidelines after sustaining a hamstring injury in Sunday’s 2-0 defeat at Everton.

The right back is set to begin his latest rehabilitation programme at Cobham after scans confirmed the recurrence of a hamstring injury.

James had only just returned from another lengthy layoff and missed 10 games earlier this season after injuring his hamstring against Liverpool on the opening day.

Chelsea had looked to ease James back into action - with the right back also making himself unavailable for England duty last month - but the problem returned at Goodison Park and he was withdrawn in the first half.

James has endured an injury-hit year and missed the Qatar World Cup due to a knee problem, while Gareth Southgate has warned that his injury record could impact his chances of being selected for the Euros this summer.

A statement on Chelsea’s official website on Tuesday said: "Captain Reece James has undergone medical assessment following Sunday’s 2-0 defeat at Everton.

"The defender was withdrawn during the first half at Goodison Park and scan results have confirmed a hamstring injury. Reece will now begin his rehabilitation programme at Cobham."

The England right-back was one of three players who went off injured for the visitors during the Premier League contest at Goodison Park, along with goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and left-back Marc Cucurella.

Speaking after Sunday’s match - about his disappointment at losing the 24-year-old James to injury - Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino emphasised the captain’s importance, describing him as "one of the best full-backs in the world".

Pochettino also said Sanchez had departed due to a knee issue, and Cucurella because of a twisted ankle.

Those problems add to an already-lengthy injury list for the west London club, who are 12th in the table.

Includes reporting from PA

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in