Recently, four players returned to the Chelsea squad. They were unavailable due to injuries, illness, and other issues. The latest additions include Enzo Fernandez, Romeo Lavia, Malo Gusto, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
Chelsea fans were also expecting Recce James to be returning to the pitch, but that didn’t happen. This incident indicates that his injury is far more severe than expected. That is why it might take him a significant amount of time to recover from the injury.
Recce James was one of the best right-backs in the world at one point of time. He was considered ‘perfect’ for that position. While he was playing under Frank Lampard and Thomas Tuchel, he reached his prime.
However, things took an unexpected turn as James started getting injured very often. Since then, it seems like whenever he plays a game, he gets injured. This is frequently happening with James, which has been a massive concern for the player.
According to SB Nation, James has made just 26 appearances for Chelsea in the last two seasons. This is certainly an alarming fact for the club. The continuous injuries have also a major issue affecting his international football career as well.
Chelsea without Recce James
The English full-back was one of the most talented players who have come through the ranks of the famous Cobham Academy. Gradually, James became a leader at the club. He achieved his peak when he guided the Blues to lift the UEFA Champions League in 2021, under Thomas Tuchel.
Chelsea are managing to playing without him recently. On top of that, they are getting positive results. After defeating West Ham, the Blues are sitting in second place in the Premier League table. On top of that, the Blues also kept a clean sheet with a solid defensive display.
Both Recce James and Malo Gusto were absent in this match. Wesley Fofana and Axel Disasi played in the right-back position. West Ham couldn’t exploit the absence of a proper right-back in their opponent’s team. So, this is a massive achievement for the Blues. If Maresca’s team continues to perform like this, they might finish in the top four spots. This, however, also indicates that James’ need and importance at Chelsea might gradually be fading away.
Right-back options at Chelsea
Enzo Maresca has some players like Malo Gusto, Recce James, and Axel Disasi for the right-back position. In the last few games, the Italian manager has played Axel Diasi in that position. Disasi is primarily a centre-back. Therefore, the RB is a different position for him. On top of that, he was not comfortable in that position. In the game against Bournemouth, Disasi made a couple of mistakes. Chelsea were lucky because the cherries couldn’t utilize those opportunities.
From these incidents, it can be said that the Blues are in need of a right-back, who can defend as well as provide attacking contributions.
Multiple reports are suggesting that the Blues are already looking for a right-back who can compete with Malo Gusto at Stamford Bridge. They have probably listed out the right-backs whom they are going to pursue in the January transfer window. So, the Chelsea fans can expect an additional January hunt from their club, along with their club’s pursuit of their dream signing, Victor Osimhen.
Maresca is cooking
At the beginning of the season, Chelsea fans were skeptical about Enzo Maresca. They were doubtful about the Italian’s experience at the top level of football. However, after a few games, most of them might have changed their opinions on Enzo Maresca.
After 2016, Maresca became the first manager to win three consecutive opening away games in the English Premier League. The Italian has defeated Wolves, Bournemouth, and West Ham United on their home soil. This is not an easy task.
Enzo Maresca’s plan worked perfectly against teams like Wolves and West Ham. Players like Sancho, Palmer, Jackson, and Nkunku have made massive improvements under the Italian manager. This Chelsea team has loads of talented players in their squad. They only need the perfect composure and decision-making ability in the final third.
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