William Gallas believes his old side Chelsea have a leadership issue and says Blues skipper Reece James has a crucial season ahead of him.
James endured another injury-hit campaign last season, turning out just ten times in the Premier League as he battled a hamstring injury, with his absence creating a leadership void in the team.
Gallas believes that James could face a battle to keep his spot in the Blues lineup even when fit, and this will require new leaders to stand up at Stamford Bridge.
“He's the club captain, and he came back from injury last season and was sent off so he will miss the start of the season,” Gallas told Gambling Zone. “Reece James is going to have to come back to his best because Malo Gusto was excellent for Chelsea last season.
“Even though James is the captain, I think there are question marks about whether or not he will start because of his injury problems and Gusto’s form.
"I think this will be a crucial season for Reece James. How old is he now? 24? Time flies.
“James has to be careful. He has to be careful because he’s had too many injuries over the last few years and there are doubts about his ability to play 38 games in a season. He will need to demonstrate that he is capable of doing that, but I think it will be really difficult for him.”
Gallas therefore believes that his former side may be forced into the transfer market to sign a new leader.
“There are so many doubts about his availability and that is why Chelsea need to sign someone that is a natural leader,” he added. “The club are going to need a handful of players that can lead the squad, but I can’t see a leader in the group.
“Who is the leader at Chelsea? I don't see any. When the team is in trouble, when they are 1-0 down, nobody is shouting. Chelsea need some players who can shout and boost the players.”
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