Reece James: Euro 2024 spot in jeopardy as injuries persist

Chelsea skipper Reece James is “desperate” to join up with England for international role, says Blues boss Mauricio Pochettino.

England Omission Raises Concerns for the 23-Year-Old Defender

Reece James, the talented 23-year-old defender, faces uncertainty regarding his spot in England’s Euro 2024 squad after being left out of the team for the remaining qualifying games. 

Gareth Southgate expressed concerns about James’ participation in next summer’s tournament, citing ongoing issues with injuries that have plagued his season thus far.

Pochettino’s Insight: James Eager, Despite Exclusion

Mauricio Pochettino, James’ manager, clarified that the defender’s omission from the England squad was not a decision made by James himself. Pochettino highlighted James’ eagerness to represent his country and emphasized that the exclusion was not driven by the player’s lack of desire but rather influenced by his ongoing struggle with injuries.

Season Struggles: Limited Premier League Appearances

James has faced a challenging season, marked by injury setbacks that have limited his playing time. Starting in just two Premier League matches, the 23-year-old has grappled with a hamstring injury, affecting his availability for both club and country.

England National Team: Limited Involvement Since World Cup Absence

Since being ruled out of the World Cup in Qatar last winter, James has featured in just one game for the England national team, playing against Italy in March. Gareth Southgate’s decision to omit James from the Euro 2024 qualifiers suggests that the defender’s journey to full fitness is still ongoing.

Chelsea’s Cautious Approach: Managing James’ Recovery

It’s understood that Chelsea’s medical staff is taking a cautious approach to James’ recovery, carefully managing his minutes and ensuring a gradual return to full fitness. The priority is to avoid any setbacks that could further prolong his absence from competitive football.

As Reece James navigates this challenging period, the collaborative efforts of the club and player will be crucial in ensuring a full recovery and a return to his best form, both for Chelsea and, potentially, for future international duties.