Chelsea wing-back Reece James has wished Kyle Walker a speedy recovery on Instagram after news emerged of his successful surgery earlier this week.
The Manchester City man now faces a race against time to be fit for this winter’s World Cup in Qatar.
The competition for the right sided defender role looked extremely tense, with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Kieran Trippier also firmly in the hunt.
The Liverpool man used the Champions League this week to remind everyone of his abilities. Just minutes into Liverpool’s game against Rangers, he curled home a sensational free kick to give the Reds the lead.
However, the discussion for the starting right-back has mostly been a battle between James and Walker.
With them both able to play either out wide or as a centre back, they are two options that Gareth Southgate will be sure to pick if fit for tournament next month.
James wishes Walker well
Those plans could now be in doubt following Walker’s surgery. It is being claimed that he faces a race against time to even make the squad.
James took to Instagram to wish his international teammate well, wishing him a speedy recovery and return to football.
The news does point to the Chelsea man becoming the outright favourite for the role come the Three Lions’ tournament opener against Iran next month.
Many figures in the media have tipped the 22-year-old to start, with them believing the defensive assurances he offers make him a better option than Liverpool’s Alexander-Arnold.
This was on display last night in the tricky test up against AC Milan’s Rafael Leao. While the Chelsea target certainly impressed, James got the better of him in the end whilst also providing in the attacking third.
Whilst Walker will be a great option for Southgate to have, based on current form James is the clear number one option for the role this winter.
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
