Currently owned by 37.9% of Fantasy Premier League managers, the news of Reece James’ potential year-ending injury has rocked Chelsea and the wider football world.
He’s a doubt for England duty at the World Cup later this year, reducing Gareth Southgate’s litany of options at right back, but there are a number of alternatives you can turn to if you’re currently a James owner on FPL.
Just don’t forget; there is a Friday night game this gameweek – the battle of the Brs as Brentford host Brighton – so get your squad in shape early.
Timothy Castagne – £4.4
Leicester have been pretty atrocious defensively this season, but Timothy Castagne is the weird anomaly in their side picking up points at a snip of a price, too.
The Foxes did lose to Bournemouth last time out, but not before passing the 60th minute mark – shortly after which Castagne was subbed off. Brendan Rodgers later revealed he had a bruised eye but is in contention to face Crystal Palace.
If Leicester can turn the corner and sharpen up at the back, later matches against Leeds, Wolves and Everton could produce defensive returns on a budget. Just bench him for the home clash with Manchester City.
Kieran Trippier – £5.6
Kieran Trippier is a more obvious replacement. He’s a smidge cheaper than James and has provided returns in each of his past four games.
His attacking threat was particularly evident in Newcastle’s 5-1 victory over Brentford last time out, though a trip to Manchester United will probably test the Magpies’ defence slightly more.
That aside, home clashes with Everton and Aston Villa are on the horizon, making Trippier an enticing option.
Matt Doherty – £4.6
Matt Doherty didn’t exactly get the vote of confidence he might have liked when Tottenham head coach Antonio Conte was asked about his and Djed Spence’s lack of playing time.
However, Emerson Royal is suspended for the next two Premier League games and Doherty was his replacement in the 1-0 victory at Brighton.
He looked sharp enough for a player down on game time and should retain his spot at right wing back when Everton visit north London on Saturday.
Ben Chilwell – £5.8
If you fancy keeping it Chels at the back, a simple swap for Ben Chilwell could work wonders.
The Blues have kept clean sheets in three of Graham Potter’s four games in charge so far, while Chilwell is a proven goal threat from left back.
He does, however, have competition from Marc Cucurella for a starting XI spot, so if you opt for the former Leicester defender, just know;…
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