Reece James was forced off during the first half of Chelsea’s Premier League match at Everton on Sunday. The right-back was replaced by Levi Colwill at Goodison Park in another blow to his recent fitness issues.
James made just his fifth start in the league this season on Merseyside. He has been in and out of the Chelsea team since recovering from a hamstring injury he suffered on the opening day against Liverpool.
It has been a hugely frustrating spell for the England international, who has also missed a couple of matches due to suspension. James was left out of the starting XI for the 2-1 loss to Manchester United in midweek, coming on at half-time.
Mauricio Pochettino brought him back into his team at Everton. However, he lasted just 27 minutes before Colwill took his place.
James didn’t receive any treatment on the pitch and it was not clear who Colwill would come on for when the young defender was preparing himself on the touchline. James had clearly spoken to Pochettino to advise him that he needed to be replaced.
James has made just 19 Premier League starts since the beginning of last season. He missed over two months of action following the hamstring problem he sustained in August.
He was appointed Blues captain in the summer following the departure of Cesar Azpilicueta. But the armband hasn’t changed his fitness fortunes so far.
Pochettino said this week that he has been pleased with James’ start as skipper. However, he admitted he has been frustrated with his lack of game time.
Pochettino said: “He’s doing really well as captain. He’s helping the club. He’s helping his team-mates. He’s helping in every single decision in which he’s involved. He’s always positive.
“You need to remember for any captain, if he’s not playing, it’s difficult to be involved and to help the team, but he’s doing a fantastic job. I am so happy with him.”
James’ inclusion was one of four changes Pochettino made at Everton from the 2-1 loss at United. Benoit Badiashile came in for Thiago Silva at the back, while Armando Broja replaced Nicolas Jackson up front.
Conor Gallagher returned from suspension at Goodison Park. He came in for the rested Raheem Sterling, which saw Cole Palmer move back out wide.
Everton lost a player of their own through injury in the first half. Ashley Young was forced off and replaced by Nathan Patterson.
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