# Chelsea Defender Reece James Charged by FA for Abusive Words Towards Match Official
Chelsea defender Reece James has been charged by the Football Association (FA) for using ‘abusive words’ towards a match official in the tunnel following Sunday’s home defeat to Aston Villa. James is currently out injured with a hamstring injury and has not featured since the first Premier League game of the season.
The FA released a statement on Wednesday confirming the charge against James. The statement read: “Reece James has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3 following Chelsea’s Premier League game against Aston Villa. It’s alleged that the defender used improper and/or insulting and/or abusive words and/or behaviour towards a match official in the tunnel after the game. Reece James has until Friday, 29 September, to provide a response to this charge.”
The incident occurred after Chelsea’s 3-1 loss to Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. The Blues had taken the lead through Mason Mount’s early goal, but were pegged back by a first-half equaliser from Anwar El Ghazi. Ollie Watkins then scored twice in the second half to secure the win for Villa.
James, who joined Chelsea from Wigan Athletic in 2019, has been a regular starter for the Blues this season, making four appearances in all competitions before his injury. He was an unused substitute in Sunday’s game against Villa, and it is believed that his outburst was directed at the match officials in the tunnel after the game.
The FA have yet to comment on the severity of the charge against James, but it is likely that he will face a hefty fine or suspension if found guilty. The FA have a zero-tolerance policy towards players who use abusive language towards match officials, and any punishment handed out to James is likely to be severe.
It is yet another blow for Chelsea, who have endured a difficult start to the season. Frank Lampard’s side have won just two of their opening six Premier League games, and are already nine points behind leaders Liverpool.
The Blues will be hoping that James can put this incident behind him quickly and focus on returning to full fitness. He is expected to miss at least another week of action due to his hamstring injury, but could be back in contention for Chelsea’s next game against Manchester United on October 24th.
More information on this incident is expected to be released in the coming days, as the FA investigate further into the matter. Until then, Reece James will have to wait and see what punishment he will face for his actions.