It is no secret that Chelsea have struggled with injury problems going back years now. Some have picked up long-term issues, like Levi Colwill. But then there are others who seem to be constantly injured, which is perhaps even more worrying. There is a positive update regarding one such player though, which will be music to the ears of the supporters.
There are not too many players in this team who can be termed 'world-class' on their day. Cole Palmer and Moises Caicedo fall under that category. And so does Reece James, although people often overlook his quality these days as a result of his injury-prone history.
Chelsea have taken a different approach to using James during the Enzo Maresca era though. It has been a lesson in load management, as he has been left on the bench, even in important games, if the situation calls for it. His role has developed as well, as he has gone from a full-back who was up and down the flank all game to someone who sits back a lot more often now. And while one could argue that it does not make the most of his qualities, it seems to be preserving his health.
The strategy is one that has divided opinions, especially if Chelsea lose on a day on which James was left on the bench. That being said, nobody can deny the results, as it has been a while since the club captain picked up an issue. And Maresca believes that his overall fitness is now better as well.
'He is ready to play' - Chelsea fans will love Enzo Maresca's update
As reported by Chelsea News, Maresca said while talking about James' status:
"Reece is good, he is doing well. He is fit, 100%. The way he has behaved every game is top. Even when he is not playing, the way he is with his teammates in the dressing room. In the way we use Reece, we don’t use him up and down. It’s a big job to do that when we use a full-backs in a different way.
“He is ready to play three games in a week."
That is a brilliant update on a player who has suffered so much already in his career. That being said, just because James is ready does not mean that he should be playing that often.
James' situation has improved vastly over the last year or so. There is no point in risking undoing the positive steps that have been taken. In Malo Gusto, Chelsea have someone who might not be as good as their captain but is capable of filling in on most days. Perhaps it would be a good idea to play Josh Acheampong there as well as he is not an automatic starter.