We’ve already written about why this international break could prove to be an exceptionally good one for Chelsea.A number of players who were in desperate need of some time off were not called up fo...
We’ve already written about why this international break could prove to be an exceptionally good one for Chelsea.
A number of players who were in desperate need of some time off were not called up for their national teams, either because of minor injuries or just pity from international managers.
The team also gets two weeks to recover some of its half fit players, including a whole bunch of centre backs. From their perspective, a little break has been ideal.
Reece James continues to benefit from careful management
Reece James gets physical with Alexander Isak. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Reece James is a perfect example. He withdrew from England duty a week ago with a minor issue, and has since been recovering at Cobham.
The right back is in the middle of his longest spell of fitness for years. A key part of that has been very cautious treatment from Enzo Maresca. We’ve rarely seen James completed 90 minutes, and he never plays 3 games in 7 days.
James knows that England manager Thomas Tuchel loves him. He doesn’t have to worry about his place in the squad next summer, as long as he stays fit. And to stay fit, he needs to not play too much. This break should mean a perfect chance to get him back out of the red zone, ready to play more in this next phase of the season.
In other news…
The Blues are already lining up a potential Axel Disasi replacement for next summer – Ronald Araujo of Barcelona has been linked with a summer move to the Blues once again, although we have our doubts about the finances of a potential deal.
Estevao Willian’s health has been a concern in recent days, although the news is good from the Brazil camp, where he appears to have trained normally today.
Category: General Sports
