Chelsea news: ‘It was tough’ – Reece James reflects on injury struggles

Chelsea captain Reece James says it “takes a lot out of you” to keep getting setbacks when trying to return from injuries.

The 25-year-old has had a difficult three years with different injury and fitness issues that have left him struggling for consistent game time.

His 19 Premier League appearances this past season is the most he has made since the 2021-22 campaign.

He was able to finish the 2024-25 season strongly with the Blues, helping them secure Champions League football and win the Conference League.

The right-back’s form has seen him return to the England fold and have the chance to feature in their World Cup qualifier against Andorra on Saturday.

“For sure I’m moving in the right direction. I finished the season strongly and I am in a good place,” James told a pre-match news conference.

“I had a difficult two or three seasons. Always injured, coming back and breaking down again – it was tough.

“It takes a lot out of you when have had so many setbacks but I feel like I have come on leaps and bounds this season.

“Playing consistently, playing for England again, feeling strong – so for sure I am moving in the right direction.”