Chelsea Star Reece James Slapped with One-Game Ban Ahead of Arsenal Clash
Chelsea star Reece James has been handed a one-game ban by the Football Association (FA) but is free to face Arsenal on October 21. The FA have confirmed that James will serve the suspension when Chelsea travel to face Burnley on Saturday, a match he was already due to miss through injury.
James was handed the ban for using ‘abusive language and behaviour’ towards referee Jarred Gillett in the tunnel after Chelsea lost to Aston Villa in September.
The FA Statement
“Reece James has been given a one-match suspension and £90,000 fine for breaching FA Rule E3 at Chelsea’s Premier League match against Aston Villa on Sunday 24 September,” read a statement from the FA on Wednesday.
“The defender admitted that he used improper, insulting and abusive words and behaviour towards a match official in the tunnel after the final whistle. An independent Regulatory Commission imposed these sanctions following a hearing, and its written reasons for them will be published at the earliest opportunity.”
James’ Absence
James has only featured once for Chelsea this term after picking up a hamstring problem in the 1-1 draw against Liverpool on the opening day of the season. Mauricio Pochettino’s side have mostly struggled in his absence, picking up just two Premier League wins from their following six fixtures after that draw.
The Blues appear to have turned a corner, though, with recent back-to-back wins over Brighton and Fulham in the Carabao Cup and top-flight respectively.
Conclusion
James will now miss Chelsea’s trip to Burnley but is free to face Arsenal on October 21. His return will be a huge boost for Mauricio Pochettino’s side as they look to build on their recent back-to-back wins over Brighton and Fulham.