What Reece James did at full-time after Chelsea beat Leeds United 3-2 in the FA Cup

In a riveting 3-2 victory over Leeds United in the FA Cup’s fifth round, Chelsea’s Reece James remained sidelined due to injury, unable to contribute on the field. Despite his absence, James exhibited sportsmanship by congratulating Jimi Tauriainen and his teammates post-match.

Tauriainen, making his Chelsea debut, received a warm embrace from his captain, marking a memorable moment for the newcomer as the Blues emerged victorious in a hard-fought encounter. The journey to success was far from straightforward, with Chelsea trailing 1-0 initially and surrendering a 2-1 lead. However, a last-minute goal from Conor Gallagher secured a 3-2 win, ensuring the club’s progression to the FA Cup quarter-finals.

As anticipation mounts for Reece James’ return, Mauricio Pochettino expresses a desire to have his captain back for the upcoming quarter-final clash against Leicester City at Stamford Bridge. However, James’s absence is set to persist, with no clear timeframe for his return, as reported by journalist Bobby Vincent. Those close to James are cautious about setting expectations for his recovery.

In James’s stead, Malo Gusto has seized the opportunity to showcase his capabilities in the team. The 20-year-old has performed admirably, earning praise from his manager. In a recent Premier League fixture against Manchester City, where Chelsea secured a 1-1 draw at the Etihad, Gusto’s impactful performance stood out. He made eight tackles, the highest in the match, surpassing key players like Enzo Fernandez, Conor Gallagher, and Moises Caicedo. Additionally, Gusto registered 10 clearances, with only Axel Disasi managing more (16).

While the return of Reece James is eagerly anticipated, Malo Gusto’s commendable contributions highlight his competence as a capable deputy to the 24-year-old right-back. The team continues to navigate challenges with resilience, showcasing depth and versatility in their squad.