Image credits: Stake
Chelsea captain Reece James faces yet another setback in his injury-ridden career after being ruled out of the upcoming Premier League clash against Leicester City due to a hamstring problem. The 24-year-old England right-back, who only returned to action in October after missing the season’s start, has been sidelined again, casting a shadow over his fitness and availability for the club’s crucial fixtures.
Coach Enzo Maresca’s Update
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca addressed the issue in a press conference on Thursday, emphasizing caution in James’ recovery.
“Reece, unfortunately, felt something small, and we don’t want to take any risks this weekend,” Maresca said. “Hopefully, it’s not something longer. He felt something, he has to be out, and then we’ll see. It’s his hamstring, a muscle problem.”
The Italian tactician is optimistic that James’ injury is not severe but remains wary, given the defender’s recent history of recurring injuries. James has struggled to maintain consistent fitness over the past two seasons, an issue that has repeatedly disrupted his playing rhythm.
“For sure, [James can overcome his injury struggles]. But in this moment, it is not happening,” Maresca added, reflecting confidence in James’ eventual recovery while acknowledging the current challenges.
Chelsea’s Injury Woes Deepen
James’ absence adds to Chelsea’s growing list of injured players, which already includes Romeo Lavia, Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana, and Jadon Sancho. Additionally, Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill, who withdrew from England duty during the international break, remain fitness concerns. While Maresca confirmed some of the injured players are making progress, others will undergo late fitness tests ahead of the Leicester game.
“Some of them are better; some of them we’ll test today,” Maresca commented on the status of his “walking wounded” squad.
James’ Injury Struggles
James has battled persistent injury issues that have hampered his development and availability for Chelsea and England. His latest setback comes after a long-awaited return to full fitness in October. Despite his undoubted talent and leadership qualities, these recurring injuries have raised concerns about his long-term reliability as Chelsea’s captain.
The Leicester Connection
Adding emotional weight to the upcoming fixture is Maresca’s return to Leicester City, the club he guided to promotion from the Championship last season. Reflecting on his time at Leicester, Maresca expressed gratitude and excitement for the visit.
“It was a fantastic season because I met good people, and in terms of players, it was fantastic. We had a fantastic connection between the players and staff, and this is something you need to create when you want to make something important.”
Maresca acknowledged the special bond he formed during his time with the Foxes, describing the season as a career highlight.
England Duty Controversy
The injury withdrawals of Palmer and Colwill from England duty have sparked controversy, with Harry Kane publicly criticizing players who opt out of representing the national team. Kane insisted that playing for the Three Lions should take precedence, while some reports suggested club managers might have influenced decisions to rest players during the busy season.
Maresca dismissed speculation about his involvement in the matter.
“To be honest, we played Arsenal, and then I left for a week,” he said, distancing himself from any potential club-versus-country conflict.
Looking Ahead
Chelsea will face Leicester City at the King Power Stadium without their captain, as Maresca hopes to manage his injury-hit squad effectively. The absence of key players like James and the uncertainty surrounding others could pose a challenge for the Blues as they seek to build momentum in the Premier League.
Maresca’s emotional return to Leicester will undoubtedly add intrigue to the fixture, but Chelsea fans will be more concerned about their team’s ability to overcome injuries and secure vital points in a tightly contested season.
