Lasse Lempainen, the surgeon overseeing Reece James’ recovery, has assured that the full-back will be in peak condition for Euro 2024.
James underwent surgery to address a persistent hamstring injury that has caused him to miss 37 games at Chelsea over the past few years. According to 90min, James sought multiple opinions before ultimately agreeing with the club and manager Mauricio Pochettino to undergo the surgical procedure.
In an interview with the Telegraph, surgeon Lasse Lempainen provided an update on the successful procedure conducted in Turku, Finland, expressing confidence in James’s full recovery.
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“We did the operation on his right hamstring in Turku, Finland, and it went very well,” stated Lempainen. “After careful consideration, we all agreed to do the operation. We are convinced it was the right treatment decision, and we are now all happy that we did the right thing. On Friday morning, we made an individual rehabilitation plan for Reece, and now it’s time to make a good recovery.”
“I am very convinced that Reece will be in top shape before the European Championship. Chelsea will decide on how long he takes, but more likely we are talking about that kind of period [three to four months].”
Lempainen emphasized that the surgery increases James’s chances of maintaining fitness and avoiding recurring problems, specifically addressing concerns on the right side. He also mentioned addressing risks associated with James’s left hamstring during the rehabilitation process.
“In the last phase when we do the sport-specific rehab, we will do our best that these risks should be minimized. The hamstring on the right will be stronger, yes. We will try to do our best during the rehab process to assess the risk factors in Reece’s left hamstring and try to help his strength, mobility, and sprinting technique so Reece can enjoy high-level football again.”
During James’s absence, Pochettino has frequently utilized Axel Disasi as a right-back, despite the French international being a natural center-back. Additionally, Pochettino has the option of Malo Gusto, a former Lyon player who provides a more offensive alternative.