Questions have risen over the consistency of the Chelsea right back and his ability to lead the team due to his lack of presence on the pitch. The constant threat of injury is a worry to many fans as the home grown talent has the potential to become a effective club captain but only if he can manage his fitness.
Reece James' quality is well known all across the nation as many football fans rank him above all in his position. Competing at the highest level with Chelsea for over four seasons now, James has regularly shown his quality in the Premier League and in knockout football (especially in Chelsea's 2021 Champions League winning side). Strong, agressive, intelligent are a few of many positive adjectives to describe the complete defender. Unfortunately, a fit week in week out Reece James is too good to be true. Issues regarding injuries and maintaining fitness are hindering his future career.
Riddled with significant wellness problems during his time at Chelsea, including a current hamstring injury, the 24 year old is always at battle with his body. Chelsea have been a much better side with the Englishman on the pitch as he offers much better defensive structure and overall team confidence, compared to his counter parts.
Since 2019 James has had 17 total injuries in which 11 have been thigh and ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) related, evidently showing his vulnerablility.
With Reece James seemingly having such brittle bones, it's going to be tough for him to maintain his role as captain of the football club. Although making good progress as we speak, Reece James and the club are reluctant to put a timeframe on his return. But it is unlikely to see him fully recover before the end of the season.
Chelsea's squad is the second youngest in the Premier League (Burnley claiming top spot), so the 24 year old would seem like a great solution to transition young prospects into flourishing athletes as he has transitioned himself from academy to first team football in just the past four seasons. But Reece James needs to be on the pitch to maximise his teams performance and to nurture these raw talents.
Thiago Silva, Ben Chilwell and Conor Gallagher have all been named as captain this season in the absence of James. All three are more than capable of leading the side but with James as captain the team just seem to be much more at ease.
Chelsea prepare for a home game against Everton on Monday in which the Blues hope to continue their seven game unbeaten run in the league with Cole Palmer and Malo Gusto inspiring the team with their recent performances. If James is not expected back anytime soon, it is up to the other captains to grab the team by the scruff of the neck and secure a much needed win.