Reece James has described 2022 as his "toughest year to date" after the Chelsea star was forced off against Bournemouth last night with another knee injury.
The match at Stamford Bridge was James' first competitive outing since early October and he looked at ease during the first half as Chelsea opened up a two-goal advantage. However, early into the second period, James signalled to the bench that he had to be replaced before he fell to the turf in anguish.
The full extent of the injury has yet to be determined – and Chelsea head coach Graham Potter said it would take 24-48 hours to do so. Yet James has taken to social media to reflect upon what has been the most challenging year in his young and already hugely successful career.
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"2022 has been the toughest year to date," James wrote on Instagram. "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."
James' importance to Chelsea has only been amplified during his absences over the past 12 months. The 23-year-old is one of the very best in his position in the world game, an excellent defender but also a huge attacking weapon capable of creating and scoring goals from wing-back or full-back.
“Reece is a world-class player," said Potter after the victory over Bournemouth. You see it from the outside but it’s not until you work with him how good he is. He is an incredible player, one who would fit into any team in the world. Any team would miss him.
"He was playing well and he’s a top player. As much as we think coaches are magicians, believe me, if you have top players it makes the coach’s job a lot easier. You can see the quality Reece brings down that right in the first half, especially and to see him go off, it affects the stadium, the team, everything. That isn’t an excuse but we’re human beings and he is someone we care a lot about."
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