Paul Merson has admitted that he’s quite stunned by the omission of one Chelsea player from Gareth Southgate’s England squad.
England boss Gareth Southgate officially named a 33-man squad on Tuesday, which will be further cut down to 26 players for the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament this summer.
There’s good news from a Chelsea perspective with the inclusion of both Cole Palmer and Conor Gallagher.
However, as you can see above, Blues individuals such as Raheem Sterling, Reece James and Ben Chilwell all missed out.
Paul Merson ‘shocked’ Chelsea man misses out
Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson can’t quite believe that Chelsea’s Reece James isn’t in the England squad just announced by the Three Lions manager.
The 24-year-old club captain hasn’t had a lot of football during another injury-hit season, playing only 11 games in total. It’s worth saying that the talented right-back did return to action and fitness for the Blues earlier in May, though.
When discussing James’ omission from the England squad, Merson told Sky Sports Premier League: “I didn’t get that one. I am quite shocked. I think he is one of the best in the business. I know he has had a long injury, but [Luke] Shaw has been out a long time. Yeah, I am quite shocked with that one… Really shocked.”
Why Reece James news is good for Blues
Of course, James should be gutted by his England snub ahead of a major international tournament.
The Chelsea Chronicle agrees with Merson that James is one of the best full-backs around. If it wasn’t for injury issues, he would be a shoe-in to be picked. He could be a big miss for certain parts of the tournament as well, especially if Kyle Walker gets injured.
While it may be a tough watch for James this summer back at home, Chelsea may feel the benefits when it comes to next season. The right-back gets a full summer to try build up his fitness and finally overcome these persistent injuries that disrupt him.
Incidentally, James’ start to the 2024/25 campaign will be delayed due to suspension while he serves the rest of four-game ban for a red card.