When choosing the England team to fly to Qatar for the World Cup, Gareth Southgate must make a number of significant selections, and Reece James is under close scrutiny.
Update on Reece James‘ injury as Chelsea star learns when to expect a return in the World Cup campaign
Before the World Cup in Qatar, Reece James has been given new hope of joining the England team. Following a clash with Theo Hernandez during Chelsea’s 2-0 victory against AC Milan last month, the 22-year-old defender sustained a knee injury.
He was scheduled to be out of commission for eight weeks, making it unlikely that Gareth Southgate will call him up. James was transported to Dubai to expedite his rehabilitation, and since then, he has been making progress.
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The Cobham graduate is rumored to have been working out in the pool and gym as the Blues frequently update the FA on the right-knee back’s stability and conditioning. James has reportedly been informed he might be fit in three weeks, according to The Sun.
The Chelsea star will miss all three of the Three Lions’ group stage matches, if the news is to be believed. On November 21, England will play Iran, on November 25, the United States, and on November 29, Wales.
Given that the Chelsea player is in a time crunch, Southgate faces a difficult decision on whether to risk giving James a spot in the 26-man team. Kyle Walker, a fellow right-back who has recently returned from injury, is vying for a spot on the team.
James said in a YouTube video that a surgeon had informed him he might not be able to work for two months. He recalled: “Last week, I was hurt after a tackle against AC Milan.
“After the game, I didn’t believe it was that severe; I spent an extra day in Milan and reasoned that it might simply be a minor ache. I believe I saw a surgeon one or two days later. I was informed that I would be gone for around two months.”
James has played in both a back-five and back-four formations while starting each of England’s past four UEFA Nations League games. The Chelsea star is reportedly trusted by Southgate, and his adaptability may be crucial in determining whether to take a chance on his availability.