Chelsea captain, Reece James has withdrawn from England’s squad for October Internationals after sustaining muscle fatigue at Chelsea’s last Premier League fixture against Liverpool. The Englishman will not feature in England’s matches on Thursday and next Tuesday following medical assessments.
The Football Association have also reportedly signed off on his return to Chelsea for recovery in a bid to safeguard his long-term fitness after medical assessments were done.
Nico O’Reilly to Replace James
20 year old prospect from Manchester City, Nico O’Reilly will get a chance at a debut call-up from England to replace James in Thomas Tuchel’s ThreeLions squad after an impressive Youth International performance. Nico made his Senior debut in the 2024 Community Shield against Manchester United and went on to get his first goal for Manchester City in the FA Cup third round match against Sanford City. He then got his first career brace on a 3-1 home win over Plymouth Argyle in the FA Cup fifth round, and was of immense value in the FA Cup quarter-final win against AFC Bournemouth assisting both goals for his side thereby earning him the Man of the Match award.
Nico who got his first Premier League start for Manchester City, and his first goal in the Premier League against Crystal Palace, has signed a new five-year contract with Manchester City until the summer of 2030 before being called up to the England senior squad for the first time. All of these happening under 1 year, 1 month, 3 weeks and 6 days.
The Blues, according to sources, are however, very optimistic that Reece James’ withdrawal from International duty was only precautionary given the number of significant spells out with hamstring problems he has had over the past two seasons, and the skipper would not be out for a long time.
