Chelsea captain Reece James has hinted that he may be out until Christmas after speaking about his latest injury on Instagram.
As well as acknowledging his disappointment about suffering yet another fitness setback, James also wished fans well for the festive period:
“Hello all, I hope and wish you’re well. This message is to the people who understand & have respect for what I’m going through… I appreciate you so much, your support and kind messages go further than you can ever imagine.”
“And just to touch on me…I’m doing okay, been better and also been worse. Another challenge ahead accepted. Eventually, I’ll come out on top. Against all odds. Lastly, I’d like to touch on the festive period coming up, these times are tough for everyone! I wish you all a happy and peaceful festive season.”
If James was set to be back in action within days as initially expected, there would have been no need to issue such a message, but it seems he expects to be out for a while and he won’t return to social media until he is fit again.
What has Maresca said about the injury?
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Thursday, head coach Enzo Maresca confirmed that James has suffered another hamstring injury.
The Italian did not want to go into too much detail about the right-back’s fitness situation, simply stating he doesn’t know “how long” he will be unavailable for, but he won’t be in contention to face Leicester this weekend.
Chelsea have an almost fully fit squad
With the exception of James, Maresca said that he doesn’t have any other injury concerns. The likes of Romeo Lavia, Cole Palmer, Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana, Malo Gusto and Jadon Sancho were doubts heading into Saturday’s game but it is believed that most (if not all) are back in training.
Despite playing for their countries early on Wednesday morning UK Time, both Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez were also at Cobham, suggesting they will be in contention to start at the King Power Stadium.
Find out who is in Chelsea’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here
