Troy Deeney believes the decision to appoint Reece James as Chelsea captain looks ‘strange’ with hindsight given his well-documented injury issues.
The Blues academy graduate was named the club’s skipper in August 2023 following the departure of Cesar Azpilicueta but has endured a tough spell with injuries since then.
The Englishman featured in Chelsea’s last four Premier League games – his first minutes of the season – before the international break, but is now facing another spell on the sidelines.
Enzo Maresca is not short of options at full-back but James’ absence does mean the Italian’s young squad will be without one of his side’s leaders for another period of time.
And given James has only managed to play 654 minutes of football since being named captain 15 months ago, Deeney believes the club must be questioning their decision to hand him the armband.
‘The most damning thing you can say about Reece James is that you’re surprised when he’s on a teamsheet,’ the former Watford striker told talkSPORT.
‘If he’s got injury problems which he clearly has, it’s unfortunate. Sometimes it’s just the way your body is. Some people train their best and they just break down.
‘But it just seems to me that he always breaks down. I thought it was strange to make him captain if I’m being totally honest for the reason that he’s never fit and available.’
Speaking on James’ long-term Chelsea future, Deeney added: ‘I think he’s in last chance saloon as to whether he will be at Chelsea.
‘Where he goes after that is a massive struggle because he might end up, to a lesser scale, in the Jack Wilshere mould where he has to go to a Bournemouth on a pay-as-you-play type deal.
‘Within two years he could be out of the game and it’s a shame because he’s clearly talented and a very good player but you have to be fit and available or there’s no point having all that talent.’
Following his latest injury, James penned a message on his social media in which he vowed to return stronger from his latest setback.
‘Hello all, I hope and wish you’re all well,’ he said on Instagram.
‘This message is to the people that understand & have respect for what I’m going through… I appreciate you so much, your support and kind messages go further than you could ever imagine.
‘And just to touch on me… I’m doing okay, been better and also been worse. Another challenge ahead accepted. Eventually I’ll come out on top. Against all odds.’
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