The Athletic source: injured Chelsea star may not return to full fitness this season

A supposedly secret Chelsea source for trusted football media outlet The Athletic claims that an injured Chelsea star may be out, or not his usual self, for the remainder of the current season. The Pride of London talk injury-prone Blues captain Reece James, along with discussing a suggestion from CFC hero Frank Lampard
Chelsea FC v Brighton & Hove Albion - Premier League
Chelsea FC v Brighton & Hove Albion - Premier League / Mike Hewitt/GettyImages
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Bad news, I'm afraid. James might not actually return properly fit for Chelsea before the 2024/25 campaign begins. That is, if a report from a very good source is correct; I would assert that this information is likely true, from experience. The well-liked fullback purportedly faces an 'uphill battle' to be at 100 percent by May. On Tuesday, ChelseaFC.com confirmed that scan results showed a fresh hamstring problem.

"There have already been some reports that James will be unavailable for a minimum of three months. One source connected to the club, who was speaking anonymously to The Athletic to protect relationships, believes he faces a challenge to get back to his best before the end of the season in late May."

The Athletic

Former Chelsea star and manager Frank Lampard suggests that the Blues should keep a midfielder - and Super Frank should know quality when he sees it!

Apparently, and I say this with a pinch of salt after solidifying himself more sturdily this term, Chels' are considering selling Conor Gallagher. You didn't hear that from me, OK!? In all seriousness, I don't think offloading the sometimes makeshift skipper and Chelsea Football Club Academy graduate in a time of relative turmoil is a wise move.

Valued at £34 million, Gallagher is better in the squad than out of it at present. And the present is often gloomy for fans of the west Londoners. The ex-Crystal Palace loanee is one of few 'stars' at the Blues who busts a gut for the team at the moment. And, besides, if Lampard believes Chelsea should retain the 23-year-old, then he probably shows even more class and commitment in training. I am unconvinced that Gallagher will eventually lead CFC to Premier League or Champions League glory directly. But he could be an invaluable role player.