Troy Deeney questions Chelsea’s ‘bizarre’ decision after latest injury | Football

Troy Deeney believes in appointment decision Reece James How Chelsea In hindsight, the captain looks “odd” given his well-documented injury problems.

The Blues academy graduate was named club captain in August 2023 following the departure of Cesar Azpilicueta, but has since fallen on hard times due to injury.

The Englishman has featured in Chelsea’s last four matches. Premier League games – his first minutes of the season – before the international break, but now facing another spell off to the side.

Enzo Maresca He has options at full-back, but James’ absence means the Italian’s young side will be without one of their team leaders for some time.

And given James has managed to play just 654 minutes since being named captain 15 months ago, Deeney believes the club must be questioning their decision to hand him the armband.

“The worst thing you can say about Reece James is that you are surprised when he comes into the team,” the former Watford striker told talkSPORT.

“If he has injury problems, which he clearly has, then it’s unfortunate. Sometimes it’s just your body. Some people train as hard as they can and just break down.

“But I just feel like it’s always breaking.” I thought it would be strange to name him captain, to be honest, for the reason that he was never fit or available.”

Speaking about James’ long-term future at Chelsea, Deeney added: “I think it’s his last chance as to whether he’ll be at Chelsea.”

“Where he goes after this will be a huge struggle because he could end up, on a smaller scale, being like Jack Wilshere, where he has to go to Bournemouth on a pay-as-you-play deal.

“In two years he could be out of the game and that’s a shame because he’s obviously talented and a very good player, but you have to be fit and available otherwise there’s no point in having all that talent.”

Following his latest injury, James took to social media to vow to come back stronger after his latest setback.

“Hey everyone, I hope and wish you all are doing well,” he wrote on Instagram.

“This message is for people who understand and respect what I’m going through… I really appreciate you, your support and kind messages go further than you can imagine.

“And if you touch me… I’m fine, it was better, but it was also worse. Another challenge ahead has been accepted. In the end I will come out on top. No matter what.

To see more stories like this, check out our sports page.

Follow Metro Sport for the latest news.
Facebook, Twitter And Instagram.

MORE: Ruben Amorim forces Erik ten Hag to claim victory ahead of Manchester United’s first game

MORE: Chelsea’s top scorer is considering leaving the team in 2025 due to disappointments under Enzo Maresca

MORE: Cole Palmer was injured in Chelsea’s Premier League match against Leicester City.