- James out injured
- Provides injury update
- Expects to return 'soon'
WHAT HAPPENED? The 23-year-old has experienced increasing injury issues, similar to last season, and has not played for Mauricio Pochettino's team since the game against Liverpool. James has delivered a promising injury report though, and the Chelsea captain is hoping that this will be the last of his fitness woes. Pochettino has made a point of emphasising that the English right-back won't be sidelined for a lengthy amount of time and that the international break presents a natural opportunity to focus on fitness as James isn't in the England camp.
X (@reecejames)THE BIGGER PICTURE: Malo Gusto was brought in in January as a backup and has since shown progress under Pochettino, but getting James back to full strength will be a huge help. After losing to West Ham and Nottingham Forest, Pochettino is under pressure, especially after another summer of significant investment for the club.
WHAT NEXT? Chelsea will next be in action after the international break against Bournemouth on September 17 at Vitality Stadium. James is unlikely to be a part of the game, however, Pochettino will be hopeful to have him back by the end of September.