Reece James, a defender for Chelsea who is presently suffering a hamstring problem, has been given a match suspension and a £90,000 fine.
The 23-year-old England international was disciplined by the English FA after a September 24 tunnel altercation with match officials following Chelsea’s 1-0 home loss to Aston Villa.
Despite not being able to play because of a hamstring injury, he was on the bench and is accused of verbally altercating with center referee Jarred Gillett as they exited Stamford Bridge’s main bowl.
Reece James admitted to acting in an “improper, insulting, and abusive manner” toward the referee after the FA filed a misconduct complaint against him.
James, according to the FA, agreed to the accusation and pledged to release the written defense “at the earliest opportunity.”
During the 2022–2023 season, the right-back, who is currently Chelsea’s captain, struggled to stay in shape before suffering a hamstring injury in September.
Reece James was only able to make one Premier League appearance for the team prior to becoming hurt. He has made 148 appearances in all competitions since being promoted to the club’s senior team on July 1, 2019, during which he has contributed 20 assists and scored 11 goals.
The right-back will continue to be sidelined as he recovers when Chelsea plays Burnley on Saturday, October 7 at Turf Moor.
Under new manager Mauricio Pochettino, the Blues have won just two of their first seven league games and are now positioned 11th in the Premier League.
