Title: Chelsea captain Reece James suffers new thigh injury which compromises his participation in Euro 2024
Subtitle: A recurring injury which sows doubt about James’ presence in the English national team
Chelsea have been hit with bad news with captain Reece James suffering a thigh injury in Sunday’s 2-0 loss to Everton in the Premier League.
The club released a statement on its website on Tuesday, announcing that James had undergone a medical assessment which confirmed a thigh injury. The defender will now begin his rehabilitation program at Cobham.
This is James’ seventh hamstring injury in three years, and although no specific time frame is given for his return, he could be sidelined for at least three months.
Surgery could delay James’ return, but could also be beneficial for his long-term prospects.
Last year, James missed the World Cup due to a knee injury. He was also absent from the national team’s last meeting, with coach Gareth Southgate warning him he risked losing his place by not showing up.
Southgate has several options at right-back for the upcoming Euro finals in Germany, with Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier and Trent Alexander-Arnold among the contenders.
This new injury constitutes a new blow for Chelsea, currently in 12th place in the Premier League. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and left-back Marc Cucurella were also injured in the match against Everton.
The three players add to a long injury list at the London club, with vice-captain Ben Chilwell also affected by a long-term thigh injury.
Two of Chelsea’s star signings this season, Christopher Nkunku and Romeo Lavia, have yet to play a competitive minute due to injuries.
However, the Blues hope Nkunku can make his return to the field after a knee injury, just in time for Sheffield United’s visit to Stamford Bridge next Saturday.
In conclusion, Reece James’ new thigh injury is a big blow for the player and for Chelsea. His participation in Euro 2024 is now uncertain, which leaves room for uncertainty over the composition of the English national team. The Chelsea club will also have to deal with this absence, further complicating their situation in the league.