Latest Reece James injury highlights Chelsea’s January transfer masterstroke but issue remains

When it comes to luck, Reece James has it really bad.

The 23-year-old defender has suffered another injury-related setback as the Chelsea defender was forced to withdraw from the England squad to face Ukraine tonight (Sunday) with a “minor hamstring problem”. James has missed a total of 19 games this season (all competitions) through injury or illness.

For Chelsea, that has meant they have been without what is arguably their most important player in more than half of the games they have played this season. Graham Potter has been unable to use James for most of the time since taking over from Thomas Tuchel in September, which will no doubt have weighed on the side’s form.

CONTINUE READING: Graham Potter dealt injury damage to Chelsea as Reece James withdrew from the England squad

It means Potter had to field either Cesar Azpilicueta at right-back or right wing, depending on which formation the side used, or Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who is a natural central midfielder. The right-back spot is a position that Chelsea supporters have been demanding in recent transfer windows, acknowledging that James needs support in the role.

The problem is because James is The Well, who would want to come and essentially play second fiddle to the England international? Well, Chelsea settled the issue in the January transfer window, with the club agreeing to the transfer of Malo Gusto from Lyon.

The talented 19-year-old, who has had a lot of interest in his signing from other quarters, chose Chelsea because he believes in the club’s long-term project and is excited and ready to be a part of it. However, Gusto will remain at Lyon on loan until the end of the season as the French club are keen to keep him for the remainder of their season. It’s something Chelsea didn’t want, but a compromise they were willing to make.

However, the problem for this season remains as Chelsea face a critical remainder of the season. Their hopes of a place in the top four are all but dashed, although Potter and his players will not give up the task, but the Champions League will now be the club’s main focus.