It was another miserable outing for the Blues yesterday, although the results at Goodison Park may well be overshadowed by the aftermath of a number of injuries.

James was forced off midway through the first half with what seems to be another hamstring problem.

The issue has plagued the 24-year-old for a number of seasons now, making it extremely difficult for him to develop as a player.

Marc Cucurella also seems to have picked up a problem, with Mauricio Pochettino hinting after the game, that  he could be out some time.

James in his own head

However, it is James, who is the real issue, as he prepares for what could be another lengthy spell on the sidelines.

No one will be more frustrated than the England international, with surely having an effect on his mental.

Nicol has claimed that it would be impossible to not be affecting the defender right now.

He said: “I don’t want to say this as a fact, but it’s kinda getting to the stage where you think there’s something going on in Reece James’ head whenever he feels anything.

“It’s just happened too often. That’s a bad place to be as a professional athlete.”

Pochettino will be looking with a bit of worry to who will feature in that position when the Blues return to action at the weekend against Sheffield United.

Malo Gusto is still recovering from his own problems, and no James or Cucurella could see his creativity tested at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.