Chelsea defender Reece James has ruled himself out of Gareth Southgate’s England squad list for the 2022 FIFA World Cup due to a knee injury.
James suffered the setback during a UEFA Champions League match against AC Milan on October 11 and he is not expected to recover in time for the quadrennial showpiece/
The versatile defender has been a regular fixture in Gareth Southgate’s team since he broke into the first-team two years ago.
He started the Three Lions’ last four matches and he was tipped to be part of the trip to Qatar because his eye-catching performances at Stamford Bridge this season.
James tweeted: “Devastated. The minute I injured my knee, I knew the turnaround to make the World Cup would be tight, but I always felt it was possible.
“I’ve worked harder than I ever thought I could to give myself the best chance of going and truly believed I could help the team.
“I appreciate there was risk on both sides but it was one I was willing to take. Good luck to the boys. I’ll be back soon. Stay safe and sending love.”
— Reece James (@ReeceJames) November 9, 2022
The 20-year-old versatile right-back made his Three Lions debut against Wales in October 2020 and he has 20 appearances under his belt.
