Injured Chelsea Star Says 2022 Has Been His Toughest Year

Injured Chelsea Star Says 2022 Has Been His Toughest Year

Rene Otinga
updated at April 12, 2023 at 8:21 PM
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  • Reece James walked off with an injury during Chelsea’s win over Bournemouth
  • The right back appeared to have suffered a setback in the same region that kept him out of the World Cup
  • He recently took to social media to express his frustration at having to be on the sidelines for longer

Reece James has described 2022 as his toughest year professionally barely days after suffering another injury setback.

The Chelsea right-back was only returning to the side after two months out with an injury but did not last an hour against Bournemouth on Tuesday, December 27.

During the first half, James looked fairly comfortable as his side took a comprehensive 2-0 lead. In the second half however, there were signs all was not well as he signaled towards the bench as he fell onto the turf in pain.

Reece James, Chelsea
Reece James of Chelsea FC during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and AFC Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge on December 27. Photo by Sebastian Frej
Source: Getty Images

The full extent of his injury is yet to be determined, as boss Graham Potter estimates they will have accurate information within 24-48 hours.

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What is certain, however, is the fact that Reece James may not feature for his team at least until 2023.

Taking to his social media, the right back, who also missed the World Cup, opened up on his state of mind after the latest setback.

"2022 has been the toughest year to date," He wrote.
"I just wanted to thank you all for the support this year, none of it has gone unnoticed. It’s naturally affected me mentally, but life is about dealing with the hand you’ve been dealt and that’s what I’m currently tryna (sic) do. I hope your end of the year is filled with peace, joy and happiness. Love you all, catch you next year."

As far as transfer news is concerned, Chelsea are now tracking Celtic right-back Juranovic as a potential backup for 23-year-old James, who is proving to be an injury risk, per Sky Sports.

Reece James trainer with subtle message

Elsewhere, Sports Brief reported on Reece James’ personal trainer Ralph’s subtle but cut-throat reaction to the latest injury.

Immediately after Reece James’ injury, Ralph took to Instagram to subtly hint that perhaps the right-back was called back to action a bit too early.

“I need to bite my tongue despite having a lot to say.” He posted.
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Rene Otinga
Rene Otinga is a sports journalist with over eight years of working experience in digital media. Rene's experience includes working as a Copywriter at X News Kenya and TUKO.co.ke.