Gareth Southgate has cautioned Reece James about the potential consequences of opting out of the latest England squad, citing the limited opportunities before Euro 2024. James, the Chelsea captain recovering from a knee problem, chose to skip fixtures against Malta and North Macedonia to focus on regaining full fitness.
While Southgate acknowledged James’s dedication to prioritizing his physical condition, he highlighted the inherent risks of the decision. The competition for the right-back position is fierce, with Kyle Walker, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Kieran Trippier vying for spots alongside James. Only friendlies against Brazil and Belgium in March precede Euro 2024, posing a challenge for James to secure his place.
Understanding James’s cautious approach due to his injury history, Southgate expressed confidence in James’s abilities. Despite potential competition and risks, extensive discussions between Southgate and James took place, with the player stressing his commitment to the national team.
Recognizing the complexities of James’s injury record, Southgate emphasized the need to manage his physical well-being. He underscored the importance of physical reliability, acknowledging the current training reality involving James playing followed by a few days of recovery.
Despite the desire to include James in the squad, Southgate conveyed calmness about the situation, understanding the player’s perspective and remaining confident in the decisions made.
