Chelsea captain Reece James releases 96-word statement about ‘another challenge ahead’ after latest injury setback

REECE JAMES is ready to take on the challenge of getting back fit after suffering yet another injury.

The defender has been sidelined for much of the past two years, and has barely featured since being named Chelsea captain last week.

James had only just returned from his latest injury, making four appearances for Enzo Maresca's side since the end of October.

But he has now injured his hamstring yet again, with the problem proving a persistent one.

However the right-back is not too down about his latest setback and he is determined to overcome his latest challenge.

James released a statement which read: "Hello all, I hope and wish you're all well.

"This message is to the people that understand and have respect for what I'm going through. I appreciate you so much, your support and kind messages go further than you could ever imagine.

"And just to touch on me. I'm doing okay, been better and also been worse. Another challenge ahead accepted. Eventually I'll come out on top. Against all the odds."

James, 24, also shared a photo of a tattoo on his leg which reads: "I just didn't quit."

The Chelsea skipper has had to undergo several rehabilitation and his injuries have kept him out of the World Cup and Euros.

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He has missed over 120 Blues games throughout his career, according to Transfermarkt.

James is set to miss Chelsea's next match against Leicester but boss Enzo Maresca played down concerns he could be a long-term absentee.

Maresca said: "We have just one injured player and that's Reece [James] who unfortunately felt something small in training two days ago and we don't want to take a risk for the weekend.

"It's a hamstring, muscular problem. We will see, we don't know for how long, for sure [we want him fit for longer]. At the moment it is not happening but we hope it will happen soon.

"He is out this weekend but hopefully he can be back soon. It's probably difficult that he can be available for the Conference League [next Thursday], but hopefully soon."