- James suffers hamstring injury
- Captain looks like missing festive period
- Chelsea’s injury list gets longer, along with their top four odds
Chelsea suffered a setback as their captain, Reece James, picked up a hamstring injury during Sunday’s Premier League defeat to Everton. James, who was making his first start since November 25, had to leave the field after just 26 minutes due to the injury.
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James recent injury problems continue
The 24-year-old defender has been grappling with injury issues over the past two seasons, participating in only 24 Premier League games since the beginning of the 2022-23 campaign. Chelsea confirmed the hamstring injury through scan results and stated that James will commence his rehabilitation program at Cobham, the club’s training ground.
The duration of James’ absence has not been disclosed by the club, creating uncertainty about his availability during a hectic festive period, with Chelsea set to play five games before the end of the year.
This injury marks another chapter in James’ recent injury history, as he missed eight matches earlier in the season (between August and October) due to a hamstring injury. Additionally, he was unable to participate in the World Cup in Qatar last year due to knee ligament damage.
Reece James adds to the growing list of absentees for Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino, joining players such as Ben Chilwell, Wesley Fofana, Romeo Lavia, Christopher Nkunku, Trevor Chalobah, Malo Gusto, and Carney Chukwuemeka.
Chelsea’s recent form has also been a cause for concern, with just one win in their last five league fixtures. The team currently sits in 12th place in the Premier League standings after seven defeats, collecting 19 points from their opening 16 games. The challenges of managing an injury-hit squad and improving their league performance will be crucial for Pochettino as Chelsea navigates a demanding schedule.
Betting Implications
James’ injury comes as a major blow to Chelsea. The club will not want to miss out on European football for a second successive season, and will need to go on a run sooner or later. At the time of writing, bet365 have Chelsea priced at 11/1 to finish in the top four and 15/8 to make the top six. Chelsea host Sheffield United on Saturday and face a packed Premier League schedule over the Christmas period. The Pensioners are overwhelming favourites for this game, with BetUK, at the time of writing, offering 27/100 on a Chelsea win, 12/1 for the Blades to spring a surprise and 27/5 for a draw.
There is also the little matter of a home fixture against Newcastle United, another side hit by injuries, in the EFL Cup quarter-finals next Tuesday. The bookies make Chelsea narrow favourites for this, despite their 4-1 loss at St James’ Park in the Premier League last month.
Bettors will need to assess the impact of James’ absence on Chelsea, along with the other players who are sidelined when betting on outrights or match to match.
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