Matt Law shares what he’s now been told about Reece James’ latest injury at Chelsea

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Chelsea fans are always extra anxious when they hear an injury update on Reece James because he’s been so unfortunate across recent years.

Of course, when Reece James is fit and firing in the Chelsea XI, he’s in the conversation for the world’s best right-back. In 2025, the 25-year-old club captain has mostly kept himself fit and available for selection.

Blues head coach Enzo Maresca has been intelligent with the defender’s minutes in games, but he makes such an impact when he’s on the pitch so the temptation must be there to always use him.

James claimed he’s nearly back to his best following Chelsea’s win against Liverpool last weekend in the Premier League. Unfortunately, he’s since pulled out of the England squad after initially being named in Thomas Tuchel’s group for the October international break.

• READ MORE: Chelsea staff are excited by teenage prospect who they think is similar to Reece James

Injury update on Reece James

Matt Law, the respected journalist, has provided an update regarding the fitness of Chelsea skipper James.

Apparently, he has a small issue that may cast doubt over his availability for his side’s next game, which is a league trip to Nottingham Forest on 18 October.

Speaking on the London Is Blue Podcast, Law explained: “Reece pulled out of England duty with what we’re told is a small ongoing issue, but that he definitely wouldn’t have been able to play the next two England games. Told it’s a short-term injury. I don’t know whether that takes in the Forest game or not, but that’s got to be a little bit touch and go.

“So just massive, massive injury problems. I just don’t see this getting any better at any point in the season.”

James uploaded an image showing a nasty cut on his leg after the Liverpool win, which supporters may think is one possible explanation for his England withdrawal. There is no official line on what the specific problem is, though.

The all-action right-back, who covered at centre-half for a spell last weekend, has been building a decent rhythm with his performances.

If James is unavailable, the Blues can call upon Malo Gusto as a strong deputy. Also, talented youngster Josh Acheampong can cover at full-back. Acheampong was compared to Rio Ferdinand for his performance at centre-back against Liverpool, though.

Chelsea’s best academy graduate since John Terry

It should never be overlooked that James is a homegrown talent straight off the production line at the Chelsea academy. The truth is he’s probably the best academy graduate since Blues legend John Terry.

James is the last member in the current squad from the group that won the 2021 Champions League, and we still think he’s got so much more to give, injuries permitting.

The likes of Mason Mount, Conor Gallagher and Tammy Abraham have been great success stories from the academy. However, we’re already looking at James as one of the best right-backs to ever play for the club.