'Strip him of the captaincy' - Chelsea fans turn on skipper Reece James for sending message of support to 'snake' Mason Mount after ex-team-mate's latest injury setback at Man Utd

Mount hobbled off the pitch just 12 minutes into Sunday's Manchester derby, causing James — another injury-prone England international who has struggled for game time this season — to offer his friend support with an Instagram story encouraging his old team-mate to "stay strong" during this tricky period.

CFCDaily posted James' story on X, writing: "Reece James on Instagram offering support to Mason Mount after his latest setback. #cfc"

cfcg3orge replied: "Strip of captaincy", with a baffled CFCDaily responding: "For wishing a friend…well?"

Another user, Big_ralph22, wrote: "We don’t pity snake here"

twrIdd added: "why the f*ck is he supporting a united player?"

Meanwhile, Edenn50 said: "The reaction to this sums up individuals in this fanbase"

The angry reaction from Blues fans was caused by James writing to Mount: "Not many people understand what your going through but I have lived disappointment after disappointment after disappointment. It's real tough and lonely man! Speedy recovery and Stay strong brother! I have 0 doubts you'll be back to your best!"

It was January 2023 the last time the injury-ravaged Mount completed 90 minutes of Premier League football, a shocking statistic that shows how unlucky he's been since his move north last summer. The 25-year-old is now back on the treatment table while his England team-mate James continues to suffer from ongoing hamstring problems. Both players hope to be back in action early next year.

Enzo Maresca will be desperate to get James back on the pitch as soon as possible, but their strength in depth means the west London side have been getting on pretty well without their captain. If Spurs beat Liverpool and Chelsea defeat Everton on Sunday, the Blues will celebrate Christmas at the summit of the Premier League table. It's fair to say that very few people expected Maresca's Chelsea to be competing so well at this early stage.