Graham Potter provides update on Reece James after Chelsea star limps off in his first game back after injury
Reece James was forced off against Bournemouth with an injury, and Chelsea must now wait in suspense to find out the exact extent of his most recent setback.
James missed the World Cup in Qatar due to a knee injury he sustained in October, but he was back in the Blues starting XI for the Cherries’ visit on Tuesday night.
However, the 23-year-old was forced to leave the game after 53 minutes, cutting his return to action short. James immediately signaled to the bench that he was unable to continue while collapsing to the ground and burying his head in his hands.
After receiving care from the club’s medical team, the Chelsea star was able to leave the field and proceed directly down the Stamford Bridge tunnel.
Graham Potter said when asked for an update following the 2-0 victory that the team must wait to learn the full extent of the injury.
Potter informed Amazon Prime that “not a lot” is known at this point. It was unfortunate to lose him as abruptly as we did, but we will find out in the following 24 to 48 hours.
He said, “I’m not sure of the state of the injuries,” to BBC Sport. It’s too soon to say. His qualities are apparent. We take a hit from it. Crossing fingers. We will assess its severity.
After failing to score in three straight games previous to the World Cup break, Chelsea returned to Premier League action on Tuesday night with an outstanding 2-0 victory.
They scored after just 16 minutes, with Kai Havertz slipping in to finish Raheem Sterling’s cross.
The German international set up Mason Mount, who scored on his 150th appearance for the team with a powerful shot from the edge of the box, to assist his team’s second goal.
I give the players credit. With the break we had, you never know how it’ll turn out,” remarked Potter of the victory.
“The team played well in the first half.” The disposition was outstanding. The athletes gave it their all.
It was a well-deserved victory. We needed to hang on. Bournemouth raised the bar.