Reece James has only played 391 minutes in the Premier League this season due to injuries, a significant decrease from the 1,244 minutes he played last season.
It is clear that his unreliability is a major concern. Hamstring injuries have been a recurring issue for the 24-year-old, making it risky to depend on him as a key player. In the past, Chelsea struggled to find a suitable replacement for him, leaving them waiting for his return. This has led to him feeling indispensable at times.
However, the situation has changed now, and it is likely why Chelsea are considering selling him. Malo Gusto has not only stepped in for James this season but has also shown improvement as a right-back.
Gusto’s assist against Brentford, as mentioned by Pochettino, marked his fifth in the Premier League this season. Despite Chelsea’s inconsistency as a team, Gusto has been a standout performer in his debut season for the Blues.
His impressive assist tally of five in 21 appearances, with 16 starts, showcases his reliability and impact. Notably, only Cole Palmer has more assists than Gusto in the Premier League this season.
This highlights his influence despite limited playing time and adjusting to a new league. Additionally, Gusto has more assists for Chelsea this season than Reece James since the start of the 2022/23 campaign, stepping up in the absence of the injured captain.
In the recent match against Burnley, Gusto’s performance was notable with five key passes made. His contribution on the field has been crucial, positioning him as a key player for Chelsea.
Despite facing injuries, proper management can ensure a promising future for Gusto at right-back for years to come. His absence due to a hamstring concern will be deeply felt, emphasizing his importance for Chelsea’s success in the remainder of the season.