Reece James is facing Chelsea axe – ‘it’s ruthless but it happens’, says pundit
Reece James will not start for Chelsea over Malo Gusto when he returns to full fitness.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former West Ham and Celtic striker Frank McAvennie hailed Gusto’s displays since his move to the Blues and claimed they have been strong enough to keep the captain out of the starting line-up.
James has made just eight appearances in all competitions this season amid recurring hamstring injuries, with Gusto filling in at right-back to great effect.
He has been plagued with injuries in recent years having missed 56 games in all competitions since the start of last season.
Reece James “won’t be a starter” for Chelsea when he returns
Meanwhile, the £26million Gusto has been a rare standout for Mauricio Pochettino’s struggling side this season and has notched seven assists across 28 appearances in all competitions.
McAvennie predicted that, despite James being Chelsea’s captain, the “fantastic” Gusto would retain his spot.
“James won’t be a starter when he’s back,” he told Football Insider.
“I get that he’s the captain, but there’s competition for places.
“If you get that chance and you take it like Gusto has, then James is not getting back in.
“Gusto has been fantastic from what I’ve seen and it is a shame for Reece.
“As ruthless as it sounds, it’s the only way to do it.
“James will have to come back in and fight for his place.
“It’s ruthless, but it happens.”
In other news, Chelsea could sell Conor Gallagher even earlier than thought after ‘devastating’ development.
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