"Where he goes after that is a massive struggle" - Former PL striker sends warning to Reece James after latest injury for Chelsea captain
Former England striker Troy Deeney has warned Reece James that he is running out of time at Chelsea. The pundit believes that the defender might go down the same path as Jack Wilshere, who played on a pay-as-you-play contract at AFC Bournemouth.
Speaking on talkSPORT, Deeney stated that James was injured way too often and it is a surprise every time he is on the teamsheet. He believes that the Chelsea captain has less than two years to prove his worth to the club or face the exit. He said:
"The most damning thing you can say about Reece James is that you’re surprised when he’s on a teamsheet. If he’s got injury problems which he clearly has, it’s unfortunate."
"Sometimes it’s just the way your body is. Some people train their best and they just break down. But it just seems to me that he always breaks down. I thought it was strange to make him captain if I’m being totally honest, for the reason that he’s never fit and available."
Deeney continued:
"I think he’s in last chance saloon as to whether he will be at Chelsea. Where he goes after that is a massive struggle because he might end up, to a lesser scale, in the Jack Wilshere mould where he has to go to a Bournemouth on a pay-as-you-play type deal."
"Within two years, he could be out of the game and it’s a shame because he’s clearly talented and a very good player but you have to be fit and available or there’s no point having all that talent."
Reece James missed 11 matches this season due to a hamstring issue and was back in the squad in October when the side faced Liverpool. The defender has played four matches but is set for another spell on the sidelines.
Reece James vows to come back stronger at Chelsea
Reece James posted a message for Chelsea fans on Instagram after his latest injury. The club captain stated that his hamstring injury was not bad but it was a tough situation for him to be in.
The right-back wrote:
"This message is to the people that understand & have respect for what I’m going through… I appreciate you so much, your support and kind messages go further than you could ever imagine. Eventually, I’ll come out on top. Against all odds."
The Telegraph have reported that James will undergo a scan on the hamstring next week to determine the extent of the injury. The swelling around the area has forced the club to delay the examination.