Reece James: Chelsea defender shakes off 'lonely and frustrating' injuries to score equaliser

Chelsea captain Reece James marked his return to the Premier League after a recent injury comeback by scoring a stunning 95th-minute free-kick to equalize against Bournemouth. The full-back had missed 21 games this season due to a hamstring injury, making only five league appearances. He was visibly elated after the goal, celebrating with a clenched fist, while England manager Thomas Tuchel watched from the stands.

"It’s been lonely and frustrating at times," James said in an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live, referring to his time away from the game, "I’m really happy to be back and help the team." Since being appointed Chelsea captain at the start of last season, he has only started eight games in the top flight. His last league appearance was an eight-minute cameo against Arsenal in November, and his last goal was against AC Milan in October 2022. Is this finally a turning point for the 25-year-old?

The England international made his return from a two-month injury layoff in Saturday’s FA Cup game, playing 45 minutes against Morecambe. He came on as a substitute in the 56th minute against Bournemouth, performing well against tricky winger Antoine Semenyo. However, James’ biggest contribution on Tuesday came in front of goal. Talisman Cole Palmer handed the free-kick duties to James, who repaid his teammate's trust with a 20-yard curler.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca stated, "Reece is on the same level as Cole with free-kicks because he is very good. We decided to let Reece take it, he scored, and we are happy because we got at least a point." Former Premier League striker Glenn Murray described the goal as having "pace, power, and a bit of whip." Maresca added, "He deserves it, those moments are tough for every player. Now, his target is to stay fit until the end of the season, and he will help us in the way we want."

James, who has 16 caps for his country, stated that manager Tuchel "knows what I'm capable of" when asked about a potential return to the national team. James played some of his best football under Tuchel at Chelsea, starting in the 2021 Champions League final under the German. He has not played for England since March 2023.