Reece James will miss Chelsea’s final game of the season this Sunday against Newcastle United, according to reports.
Reece James, 23, hasn’t played since mid-April because of a hamstring problem.
The right-back has continued to struggle with various injuries, making just 24 appearances across all competitions this season.
Now, he’s suffered another fresh setback that means he’s played his last game of the 2022/23 campaign.
The Evening Standard claims that James is unavailable to face Newcastle this weekend after re-injuring his hamstring.
It is understood that the defender now requires a new scan on his injury.
Chelsea’s caretaker boss Frank Lampard, who watched his team lose 4-1 against Manchester United last night, did offer an update on James:
“He (James) came out [to train] yesterday but went back in, because he had a little bit of awareness [of the injury]. We hope the scan will show there’s no real damage,” Lampard said, as quoted by The Evening Standard.
We’ve seen how much Chelsea miss James throughout the numerous games he’s missed this season.
Cesar Azpilicueta, who was actually one of the brighter sparks in yesterday’s loss at Old Trafford, can’t consistently perform at the top level any longer as a full-back.
Thankfully, Malo Gusto is due back at the club this summer once his loan deal expires. He’s a genuine right-back that we hope can provide competition and cover for James in defence.
The drop off when the England international doesn’t play is unacceptable, so let’s hope Gusto is ready to fill his boots next season.