The FA is apparently dissatisfied with Chelsea’s management of Reece James’ knee injury, which has effectively put him out of the World Cup.
After starting their most recent match against Germany last month, James, 22, was in contention to be England’s first-choice right-back in the tournament in Qatar.
The defender can also play on the right side of Gareth Southgate’s favoured back three.
Southgate was supposed to have four top-tier right-backs to pick from in James, Kyle Walker, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Kieran Trippier, but is now concerned that all four may miss this year’s World Cup, with just the latter now fit.
According to the Daily Mail, the FA is dissatisfied with Chelsea’s handling of James’ injury since it was sustained in the 2-0 Champions League win against AC Milan last Tuesday. The injuries appeared to be serious, as he staggered off the field.
Chelsea manager Graham Potter is said to have permitted James to stay in Milan for a day off with his teammates rather than return to Stamford Bridge for treatment. “Reece, we’re hoping he’ll be OK,” Potter stated during the post-game press conference.
James allegedly returned to London on Wednesday evening and underwent a scan the following day, which confirmed the ligament damage.
He allegedly returned on a low-cost aircraft without medical assistance, such as a knee brace.
