LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Reece James, the Chelsea full-back, is facing an injury setback as he has withdrawn from group training sessions in preparation for the upcoming clash against Arsenal.
James, who has been recovering from a hamstring injury sustained in August, was expected to make a return in the London derby.
However, reports indicate that he has been training alone at Cobham, which might delay his potential return.
In his absence, Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea’s manager, is likely to rely on Malo Gusto as the right-back.
Gusto is available for selection again after serving a three-match ban due to a red card against Aston Villa.
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Meanwhile, Armando Broja and Carney Chukwuemeka’s participation in the match against Arsenal remains uncertain.
If Broja is unavailable, Nicolas Jackson is expected to lead the attack for Chelsea.
There are also concerns about Chukwuemeka’s knee pain following his return to full training.
On a more positive note, Cole Palmer and Axel Disasi are expected to be match-fit after recovering from their respective injuries during the international break.
Mauricio Pochettino faces a selection dilemma as he continues to be without several key first-team players, including Ben Chilwell, Christopher Nkunku, Romeo Lavia, and Wesley Fofana.
However, the Argentine manager is coming off a successful three-match winning streak before the international break and aims to continue this positive momentum when Chelsea faces Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
