Reece James was a surprise exclusion from Chelsea’s starting XI for their game against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Mauricio Pochettino told Prime Video before kick-off that he left Reece James out for more than one reason.
However, according to journalist Nathan Gissing, the right-back was omitted from the first XI because of knee pain.
James has struggled to stay fit this season, recently coming back from a hamstring injury, but thankfully this knee problem looks very minor and was not enough to prevent him from travelling to Old Trafford.
The 23-year-old has also had to spend time away from the pitch because of a suspension after getting sent off in Chelsea‘s 4-1 defeat to Newcastle United, disappointing his manager in the process.
Mauricio Pochettino right not to risk Reece James
James is Chelsea’s captain and is easily one of the Blues’ best players. Fans would have been surprised to see him named on the bench for such a big game.
However, after all of the injuries he has picked up over the last few seasons, Pochettino was right not to risk him.
The last thing the Argentine needs is more injuries, with so many of the club’s players already sidelined.
Chelsea are already without one of their other full-backs Ben Chilwell, while Christopher Nkunku and Romeo Lavia are yet to kick a ball in the current campaign.
It remains to be seen whether they will be ready for the Blues’ next Premier League game against Everton on Sunday. Pochettino is being extremely cautious with them.
As for James, again, this knee problem does not seem to be too serious. If he comes through this match at Old Trafford unscathed, then you would expect him to start when Chelsea take on Everton. And hopefully the England international can guide his side to all three points.
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