da aposte e ganhe： Chelsea are expecting to be without Reece James for “several weeks”, but Mauricio Pochettino hopes his absence will not be as long as four months.
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Blues striker nursing muscle complaintHas been forced under the knifeMay not be seen again until spring of 2024WHAT HAPPENED?
The Blues defender, who now fills the role of club captain at Stamford Bridge, finds himself stuck on the sidelines after undergoing surgery on a hamstring complaint. Injuries have become a familiar theme for Chelsea this season, with several key men spending time on the treatment table.
AdvertisementGettyWHAT POCHETTINO SAID ABOUT JAMES
James will not be rushed back, with the 24-year-old full-back set to be given as long as he needs to make a full recovery. Quizzed on how long that process will take, Pochettino has told reporters: “We don't know, several weeks. I don't know if it's months. Assess him day by day and see if it as soon as possible. Several weeks for sure.”
Pressed on whether James could be out until the spring, the Blues boss added: “Hope less. That is my wish for new year. We cannot say or put on a period because always you know it's going to be how his body reacts.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
James has cut a frustrated figure on social media since picking up another knock, with Pochettino adding on his mental state: “I think he feels well. We were talking and he has started his recovery, he is one day closer to being with the group. This is positive, we are all going to help. Always tough for a player with a very complicated, difficult season for him. One day less until he is part of the group and we are going to take in a positive way and it's the start to solve the problem and helping him to be strong, be positive, because it is an important thing.”
WHAT NEXT FOR CHELSEA?
Chelsea could do with having James around as they have continued to struggle for consistency in 2023-24. They are entering the busy festive period sat 10th in the Premier League table and with uncomfortable questions being asked of those charged with the task of delivering positivity on and off the field.