Reece James reacts to long-missing Chelsea teammate’s injury update
Reece James showed his support for a teammate edging closer to a return after a long injury layoff in his latest social media post.
Chelsea head into their Conference League knockout tie against Copenhagen in a strong position aftrer their 2-1 win and are now turning their attention to Leicester in the Premier League on 9 March.
Enzo Maresca opted for a rotational side midweek, with 17-year-old Shim Mheuka making his Chelsea debut. The team also saw Trevoh Chalobah returning from injury and straight back into the starting XI.
But while Chalobah has now made his return, another long-term absentee could soon follow, as an encouraging update on social media hinted at their recovery progressing well.
| Chelsea next three fixtures | Date |
| Chelsea vs Leicester | 9 March |
| Chelsea vs Copenhagen | 13 March |
| Arsenal vs Chelsea | 16 March |
Reece James and Shim Mheuka react as Omari Kellyman makes long-awaited return
Omari Kellyman arrived at Chelsea last summer in a £19 million deal from Aston Villa but has endured a frustrating season, making just two appearances for the Under-21s before multiple injuries kept him sidelined. After another setback in December, the teenager finally made his return, featuring for the U21s on 7 March.
Following the match, Kellyman shared an update on Instagram, writing: “192 days later… So good to finally be back after a long and frustrating spell on the sidelines. Now we build.”
Recent Debutant Mheuka showed his support, commenting: “Big bro!!” while Chelsea captain James also acknowledged the post by liking the message.
Chelsea fans have grown frustrated with Kellyman due to his absences this season, as injuries have prevented him from making an impact since his arrival. But now that he is back on the pitch for the first time since August, supporters may soon get the chance to see what he can offer.
Chelsea may consider cutting losses on Omari Kellyman after injury-hit season
Back in December, Football Insider revealed that Chelsea were open to loaning out Kellyman in January, with several EFL clubs expressing interest in the young midfielder.
The transfer fee has only added to fan frustration, as he has yet to justify the investment. The 19-year-old, under contract until 2030, is projected to have missed 47 games this season due to injury.
With Chelsea already out of both domestic cup competitions, opportunities for him to feature in the first team this season are slim. A summer move could now be on the cards as the club looks to manage his development after a difficult first year at Stamford Bridge.