Newcastle United midfielder Joe Willock has delivered a message of support to Reece James after the Chelsea defender suffered another injury blow.
The 23-year-old started in the Blues’ 2-0 win over Bournemouth on Tuesday night, but was forced off shortly after half time. James went down clutching his knee, and was subsequently replaced by Cesar Azpilicueta.
It was a crushing moment for the right-back, especially given his recent history with injuries. James looked certain to be a starter for England at the World Cup, but was not selected by Gareth Southgate due to a knee problem.
James was fit for the Premier League’s return after Christmas, but has now been struck down with another knee issue less than 90 minutes into his comeback.
The former Wigan Athletic loanee has since taken to Instagram to comment on the injury, expressing his disappointment at the end of a tough 2022.
Willock’s message after Reece James injury
Following the injury, James posted a photo and statement to his official Instagram account.
He wrote: “2022 has been the toughest year to date. I just wanted to thank you all for the support this year, none of it has gone unnoticed.
“It’s naturally effected me mentally, but life is about dealing with the hand you’ve been dealt and that’s what I’m currently tryna do.
“I hope your end of year is filled with peace, joy and happiness. Love you all, catch you next year.”
The road to recovery starts again for James, and he has received an incredible number of messages of support, one of which came from Toon midfielder Joe Willock. The pair have previously played together with the England youth sides.
He wrote: “Stay strong bro.”
Similar situation to Jonjo Shelvey
Seeing James struck down with injury again was heart-wrenching. It was bad enough that he missed out on the World Cup, but there was at least the comfort that he could return better than ever after the tournament in Qatar.
However, that has not proven to be the case. And it is a similar situation for Newcastle midfielder Jonjo Shelvey. He has also suffered from multiple injuries this season.
His pre-season was interrupted by a hamstring problem that ended up keeping him out of the matchday squad until mid-October.
The 30-year-old had since returned to full fitness, with Eddie Howe expressing his delight at being able to call upon the pass-master once again. However, disaster struck.
Shelvey was not in the squad for the win over Leicester, and he is now set to be out for six to eight weeks with a calf injury.
It is another massive setback for Newcastle’s number eight, who is being forced to watch on as his side fly up the Premier League table.
Now Reece James has a similar problem at Chelsea, with the defender unable to help his team challenge Newcastle for a place in the top four.
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