According to a report from Football.London, Reece James has expressed his emotions in an Instagram message after learning the duration of his latest Chelsea injury. The Blues‘ captain had to leave the game against Everton after just 27 minutes, with Mauricio Pochettino later stating that James “felt something in his hamstring.” It is anticipated that James will be out of action for several months due to this injury.
James’ Struggles With Injuries At Stamford Bridge
Only eight games following his return from a previous hamstring issue, Reece James encounters another setback. Throughout this season, the England player has featured merely nine times for the West London club, once more finding himself plagued by injuries in what seems like a recurring theme for the right-back. Despite grappling with a lengthy recovery from a significant hamstring injury, the 23-year-old has admirably established himself as a reliable player at Stamford Bridge in recent seasons.
With a total of 149 senior appearances across various competitions, James has made substantial contributions, notching 11 goals and 20 assists for the Blues. His current contract with the West London club lasts until the summer of 2028, securing James on a budget will pose a challenge for any potential suitors. However, with the player out of action for more than half of this season, questions arise on whether Chelsea should try and sell him while he is still valuable.
Should Pochettino Sanction His Exit From Chelsea Next Year?
James demonstrates a formidable knack for tackling, timing his challenges adeptly to regain possession for his team within their defensive territory. He isn’t hesitant to unleash powerful shots when needed and displays skill in initiating play from the backline.
This gifted player possesses the vision to craft promising opportunities for his teammates from the right side and boasts a strong ability to shoot from long distances. Although primarily a right-back, he has the versatility to adapt as a right wing-back or right-winger as instructed by the manager.
At 23 years old, the English talent appears primed for continual development, making him an attractive prospect for potential suitors eyeing the summer transfer window. Nonetheless, for him to compete at the highest echelons of European football, James may need to adjust his playing style to mitigate the risk of injuries. All in all, it would be prudent of Mauricio Pochettino to sanction his exit while his market value remains high despite his contributions at Stamford Bridge.