Chelsea captain Reece James has not ruled himself out of being in contention to take on Arsenal this weekend in the Premier League.
Chelsea captain Reece James has not ruled himself out of being in contention to take on Arsenal this weekend in the Premier League, following rumours he’s yet again suffered a setback in training.
Since featuring in the opening-day draw against Liverpool two months ago, James was ruled out as a long-term casualty with a hamstring tear.
The 23-year-old has been hampered by injuries in recent years, appearing only 16 times last season ultimately attracting critics from a majority of football’s fan base. Many fans have been left worried about the impact of the recurring injuries on the player’s career and how it affects the squad.
The right-back however returned to team training before the international break, coming as a huge boost for the Blues and building up his fitness under the watchful eye of manager Mauricio Pochettino.
Earlier this week, it was rumoured that James had suffered another setback, but the player has since hinted he could be available to face the Gunners on Saturday evening.
The England international posted a photo of himself smiling during a training session on Instagram, this Wednesday,
Chelsea also hinted at James’ availability after removing his name from their official injury list on Wednesday. Trevoh Chalobah and Carney Chukwuemeka’s names were stated, both of whom had suffered new setbacks, but James’ name was omitted as there was no mention of a problem for him at all.
But it remains to be seen if he starts against Arsenal after such a long period out, with Malo Gusto also available after serving a three-match ban for a straight red card.
The Blues, who are presently 11th on the table, will be hoping to secure three points against an unbeaten Arsenal in order to make it three wins in a row in the Premier League.
Mauricio Pochettino – while managing Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton – has never lost a league home game against Arsenal, winning three and drawing three of their six meetings.
