December 22nd 2023.
Mauricio Pochettino has commented on the latest setback of Chelsea captain Reece James. The England international right-back has been struggling with fitness this season, making just nine appearances, and is now facing up to four months on the sidelines after deciding to undergo surgery on his hamstring problem.
Pochettino was asked about James' mental state during his press conference on Friday and he offered words of encouragement. He said: “I think he feels well [mentally]. We were talking and he has started his recovery, he is one day closer to being with the group. This is really positive, we are all positive around him and we are going to help.”
The Chelsea head coach expressed his sympathy for the defender, understanding the struggles he has faced this season. He said: “It is always tough for a player with a very complicated, very difficult season for him. But now is the process for recovery. One day less until he is part of the group and we are going to take it in a positive way and it’s the start of solving the problem and helping him to be strong, be positive, because it is an important thing.”
James has been at Chelsea since coming through the academy and has made 156 senior appearances to date. Even though the 24-year-old has been linked with a transfer to Real Madrid, the Blues have no intention of letting him go.
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