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Chelsea captain Reece James has been out with a fresh injury since the beginning of the season. Having played the pre-season under new boss Enzo Maresca, James was expected back in the line-up after serving his three-game league suspension (owing to a red card last season).
However, the England full-back picked up a fresh injury which has kept him out of all Chelsea games so far this season. Malo Gusto has primarily filled in at right back, with Axel Disasi also playing the position in certain games.
With the Blues set to face Gent in the UEFA Conference League on Thursday, October 3, James has provided an update on his injury status. Taking to Instagram, he posted a series of pictures with the caption:
"Long story short I’m doing well. hope to see you soon."
The caption falls into context because there has been a lot of uncertainty regarding the player's return date. While other Chelsea players like Romeo Lavia and Gusto have returned from injuries, Maresca has failed to provide any clear update on James.
Before Chelsea's home win against Brighton & Hove Albion last weekend, Maresca had said:
“The only one [missing] is Reece. He is still out, and there is no real update on him at the moment. His injury is a bit delayed, and the most important thing for him—for any injury—is the player comes back when they are 100 per cent fit.”
Chelsea fans will hence take James' post to heart and hope the player's return is now around the corner.
Chelsea thriving despite James' injury
The Blues have had a tumultuous few years since the new ownership has taken over at the club (back in 2022). Chelsea finished 12th in the 2022-23 campaign, following it up with a sixth-place finish last season.
They appear to be building on their new squad under Maresca now as Chelsea have made a decent start to the new campaign. Since their opening-day defeat to Manchester City, the Blues have won six, drawn one, and lost one game across competitions.
They have scored heavily upfront, with Chelsea netting 15 goals in six league games this season, ranking first in terms of goals scored. Cole Palmer's continued rise coupled with good starts for Nicolas Jackson, Noni Madueke, and Jadon Sancho has been promising for the Blues.
Their defensive woes continue to be an issue, which the Blues will hope to improve upon with the return of club captain Reece James.
