Reece James was involved with his Chelsea teammates at training on Thursday, so don’t rule him out of the Arsenal game just yet. The Pride of London have further fitness news from Mauricio Pochettino’s Friday press conference, including: Axel Disasi, Armando Broja, Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, Benoit Badiashile, Carney Chukwuemeka, Trevoh Chalobah, Ben Chilwell, Wesley Fofana, Romeo Lavia and Christopher Nkunku. Meanwhile, is this the reason for a loanee’s struggles in Germany?
As is often typical with injury problems, there have been conflicting updates from the media regarding James’s current status or health. First of all there were reports suggesting that the England international had made great strides concerning a potential return to action. Then came a suggestion in the week stating that the expert fullback won’t be back in blue for the important Gunners clash this coming weekend.
However, at the end of the week Pochettino personally updated journalists on the Chelsea captain. Basically, just like Disasi and Badiashile, James is to be assessed before the big game on Saturday. This gives hope to the trio. Although, Broja is unavailable for the Arsenal match. The information on Caicedo and Fernandez is positive, as well. But the following players are still undergoing rehabilitation and won’t feature against Mikel Arteta’s men: Nkunku, Lavia, Chilwell, Fofana, Chukwuemeka and Chalobah.
Is this the reason for Chelsea man’s difficulties on loan in Germany?
There are high hopes at Stamford Bridge for David Datro Fofana. The young Blues striker – aren’t they all?! – is currently with German side Union Berlin. Yet the Ivorian is struggling on mainland Europe; Union’s sporting director Oliver Ruhnert has attempted to explain the forward’s problems. Unfortunately Datro Fofana has failed to make a solid impact after no goals or assists in spite of many minutes. Ruhnert recently said this about the 20-year-old:
"“Changing the results is not that easy for a young player. He has also had private problems at times. A little something came together. He also lacks a goal to give him some self confidence but he is someone who can help us.”Read more here"