Reece James injury latest: Update emerges on Chelsea star after Enzo Maresca comment sparks setback fears

Chelsea star Reece James remains out through injury, with Enzo Maresca’s recent commen sparking fears of a fresh setback. The England international has had a torrid time with injuries over recent years, missing 38 games across all competitions last season through a hamstring injury and subsequent surgery.

In fact, during his Chelsea career so far, the 24-year-old has missed a total of 124 games across all competitions through injury, struggling to stay fit throughout his senior career so far. When fit, James is a key player for Chelsea, and indeed a key leader, but it’s still unclear what role he will play under Maresca given his lack of availability.

When asked about James’ fitness ahead of the weekend’s win over Bournemouth, Maresca said: “Unfortunately, Reece needs more time.” The right-back is currently nursing a thigh injury. While he was never expected to return before the latter stages of this month, that comment from Maresca sparked fears that James had suffered yet another setback.

But according to The Sun, club sources indicate that there has not been any setback in the defender’s recovery, although he is recovering a little slower than first expected. Though, while Maresca may be disappointed by James’ lack of availability, the defender will want to avoid coming back too soon given his record of picking up new injuries quickly after returning.

The captaincy debate

While Enzo Fernandez has been looking after the armband as vice-captain, James does remain the Chelsea club captain with Maresca saying during the summer: “For sure, James will be one of the captains. He has already been in the past. I want him again to be one of the leaders of this team.

“I like players who take responsibility [...] all who try to be leaders [to] represent the club. [...] It’s important for all of them to feel this kind of responsibility, to behave like a captain, like a leader.”