Chelsea Captain Reece James Out Again: Hamstring Injury Strikes Before Season Start
Chelsea’s injury woes have resurfaced as right-back Reece James has been diagnosed with a hamstring injury just days before the Blues’ final pre-season friendly against Inter Milan.
The 24-year-old, who has been plagued by fitness issues over the past two seasons, finds himself sidelined once again, casting doubt over his availability for the crucial opening fixtures of the 2023/24 Premier League season.
James’ injury history has been a source of frustration for both the player and the club. Last season, a similar hamstring issue restricted him to just 11 appearances across all competitions, and the season before, he managed only 24 outings.
His latest setback, described as “minor,” raises concerns about his long-term fitness and ability to maintain a consistent presence in the Chelsea squad.
The Athletic reports that James suffered the injury after returning to England from Chelsea’s pre-season tour of the United States, where he had started all five games. Despite the minor nature of the injury, Chelsea’s medical staff will be cautious, keen to avoid a repeat of last season’s injury nightmare that severely impacted James’ availability.
James has already been ruled out of Chelsea’s final pre-season friendly against Inter Milan. However, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca suggested that the right-back might have been rested for the match regardless, as the team prepares for life without him during the early part of the season.
“We will see if it’s tomorrow or one of the games we have ahead,” Maresca said ahead of the friendly against Manchester City. “Because he is suspended, we need to try without him.”
Adding to Chelsea’s concerns, James is currently serving a four-match suspension that extends into the new season. The suspension stems from a frustrating red card in the penultimate game of last season, ruling him out of Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Manchester City, as well as subsequent league matches against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Crystal Palace. He is also expected to miss Chelsea’s Conference League play-off against either Braga or Servette.
With James’ return now likely to be delayed until after September’s international break, Chelsea faces a challenging start to the season without their captain and key defensive figure.
Chelsea Captain Reece James Out Again: Hamstring Injury Strikes Before Season Start
