Chelsea defender Reece James has been defying expectations this pre-season, playing over an hour in each of the last three friendlies despite wearing strapping on his right thigh. The 24-year-old displayed his resilience as he took to the field for Chelsea’s matches, showcasing his commitment to the team despite the minor setback in training.
During a recent session at Historic Crew Stadium, James sported a bright white bandage on his calf, positioned below the knee. His teammate Benoit Badiashile also had similar strapping on his left leg, but both defenders showed no signs of serious issues that would impede their performance against Manchester City.
In the match against City, James impressively played the majority of the game, clocking in nearly 80 minutes before being substituted. Badiashile, although not initially listed on the team sheet, made a significant impact during his half-hour appearance, replacing Tosin Adarabioyo on the field.
Despite initial expectations that James might sit out the match, similar to Levi Colwill against Club America, the England international’s inclusion reflects Chelsea’s careful management of player workloads. While Colwill received a rest in Atlanta, he bounced back with a full 90-minute performance against City, demonstrating his resilience and readiness to contribute to the team.
Badiashile’s journey this pre-season has been equally impressive, partnering with Colwill in the match against Wrexham before playing a full 90 minutes against Celtic. His versatility was on display as he adjusted to different game scenarios, earning valuable playing time in each fixture.
James, too, has showcased his commitment and endurance, starting in multiple matches and accumulating significant minutes on the pitch. Compared to his limited playing time last season due to injuries, James has already surpassed half of his total minutes from the previous campaign, highlighting his dedication to staying fit and contributing to Chelsea’s success.
As the pre-season progresses, Chelsea fans can look forward to seeing more of Reece James’s determined performances on the field. With his resilience, commitment, and talent, James is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season, solidifying his place as a key player for the team.
In conclusion, Reece James’s impressive displays this pre-season exemplify his dedication to Chelsea and his determination to overcome obstacles. With his resilience and commitment, James sets a positive example for his teammates and inspires confidence in Chelsea’s prospects for the upcoming season. As the defender continues to defy expectations and showcase his talent, fans can eagerly anticipate his contributions to the team’s success on the pitch.
