As the right-back issue continues to grow for England, Wayne Rooney has given his verdict on Reece James’ absence at the World Cup.
Reece James‘ recurring injury setbacks continue to be a topic of conversation, both on the international stage and at club level.
The Chelsea defender returned on May 9, playing just three games to close the domestic season. After a cameo against Liverpool, an 83-minute start in the FA Cup Final, and a final-day appearance against Sunderland, his brief fitness test preceded a World Cup injury with England.
Despite starting England’s opening fixtures in North America, his fitness unravelled during the group stage, where he sustained another hamstring injury against Ghana. The setback has sidelined him from the knockout rounds, as well as threatening his return for the tournament altogether.
With Marco Palestra officially in the building, does he instantly start over Reece James or Malo Gusto?👀
Wayne Rooney says Thomas Tuchel took a risk with Reece James
Reece James’ injury hasn’t just annoyed Chelsea fans, it’s also riled up Wayne Rooney.
When speaking on the BBC, the former England striker claimed that Thomas Tuchel has only picked James due to loyalty rather than being sensible.
“I’m not surprised Reece James has got injured. This was my concern with the squad he picked. The defence was always a big worry for me, more so than Cole Palmer and Phil Foden not going.
“As a manager, you do like certain players, and you’re loyal to them, you can see that with John Stones.
“He also doesn’t really seem to like Trent Alexander-Arnold. Reece James is a good player, but we knew before the tournament that we couldn’t rely on him.”
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