Why Reece James will miss Chelsea's Premier League clash against Southampton
Reece James could miss Chelsea's Premier League clash against Southampton on Tuesday night, if reports are to be believed.
The wing-back completed 90 minutes against Leicester City, with his side down to 10 men, and played a crucial part in Chelsea's winner.
Setting up Raheem Sterling with a fantastic pinpoint low cross, James was one of the stand out performers as the Blues came out on top.
Proving his worth with a goal and an assist in the first four matches of the season, James is one of the first names on the teamsheet at Stamford Bridge.
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Having played at right centre-back and wing-back so far this season, his versatility has allowed the likes of Ruben Loftus-Cheek to shine as the Blues currently sit on seven points in four matches.
However, James could now be absent from Chelsea's squad to face Southampton on Tuesday evening.
The Blues are already facing a midfield crisis with N'Golo Kante injured, Mateo Kovacic not yet fully fit and Conor Gallagher suspended.
It was thought that Loftus-Cheek would move centrally and allow James to return at wing-back, but James' potential absense has thrown this into doubt.
As reported by Simon Phillips, James will not be 'risked' as Chelsea face Southampton.
He continues to state that James may not be injured, as a reason for this has not been given.
However, he is missing the game as a precaution, with nothing to worry about in the long-term.
Furthermore, Fantasy Football expert Lets Talk FPL stated: "Someone told me yesterday that he hadn't trained."
It remains to be seen as to whether James will be with the team, but after not being spotted in training photos, Chelsea fans have come to the conclusion.
Furthermore, Chelsea fan Lucy on Twitter revealed: "I'm at the hotel and Reece James didn't arrive."
The Blues will be hopeful of having James back when they face West Ham on Saturday.
Thomas Tuchel could opt to play Loftus-Cheek at wing-back, or alternatively switch system.
The Blues lined up with a back four against Leciester on the weekend and could do so once more at St Mary's.
This has since been confirmed by Adam Newson and Bobby Vincent of football.london, with James not travelling with the squad.
Nathan Gissing continued to reveal that the wing-back is not suffering with an injury, but will miss the match through illness.
Topics: Chelsea, Reece James, Southampton, Premier League, Football
Nick Emms