Chelsea fans began to hold their breath when they found out that one of their key players had pulled out from international duty due to an injury.
It emerged that Reece James was pulling out of the England squad after picking up a problem in the win over Liverpool last time out at Stamford Bridge.
James has enjoyed a really strong run when it comes to fitness lately. He has remained healthy for the majority of 2025, after a few difficult years that have come his way.
Enzo Maresca has taken great strides to protect his club captain, and will have been frustrated with Thomas Tuchel’s treatment of the player after playing him in both games in quick succession.
Chelsea expect Reece James to return ‘in next days’
The Chelsea man was part of the epic win over Liverpool at the weekend, and played a key role in a plethora of positions on the pitch, meaning his absence would be felt badly.
However, Fabrizio Romano has stated that he is expected to be 100% recovered in the next few days, making him available for their next Premier League game.
He said on Instagram: “Reece James will return in action for Chelsea after the break despite injury. Not a serious issue for Blues captain, injury suffered vs Liverpool expected to be 100% recovered in next days.
“Good news for Chelsea as the medical staff will assess Reece soon after O’Reilly replaced him for England.”
Maresca cannot afford to lose James
Chelsea were already short on defensive options before they took to the field at Stamford Bridge to face the champions, and ended the game with James and Jorrel Hato at centre-back.
The skipper has played centre-back, right-back and central midfield at different times this season, and he would be an extremely impactful absentee if he wasn’t set to return.
The positive thing is Chelsea seem to have learnt their lesson from pushing James too hard in the past, and are protecting him from another potential layoff.
Supporters will expect to see him in the first game after the international break at the City Ground at Nottingham Forest.
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
