“I want to get him off” – Liam Rosenior reveals why he had to take Reece James off against Burnley | OneFootball

Liam Rosenior revealed he took Reece James off in the second half against Burnley because he was worried about fatigue.

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The Blues dropped two costly points as they conceded a stoppage time equaliser with the game at Stamford Bridge finishing 1-1.

It looked like Chelsea were going to record a convincing win when Joao Pedro opened the scoring in the fourth minute, but the Blues simply didn’t push on from that point.

Liam Rosenior on why he took Reece James off

Rosenior fielded the strongest possible line-up available, which meant James started at right back, but it was an all to familiar scenario which unfolded.

Wesley Fofana got sent off in the second half which made things more difficult, and Rosenior responded by taking Cole Palmer off and replacing him with Tosin Adarabioyo.

James was taken off in the second half against Burnley. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

With the game heading into the final minutes, Rosenior decided to put Mamadou Sarr and Josh Acheampong on to try and see the game out.

Considering Chelsea were coming under pressure it seemed odd in that situation to take your captain off, but Rosenior revealed after the game he was concerned about fatigue.

“Reece, it was just honestly, he’s so important to us as the captain, as the world-class player that he is,” he told his post-match press conference.

“Any sign of fatigue with him, I want to get him off the pitch.

“I need him for Arsenal. He should be absolutely fine.”

Chelsea’s concerning home record

Following the draw with Burnley, Chelsea have now thrown away 19 points from winning positions this season, which is second to only West Ham (20).

Another concern for Rosenior will be the home record, with the Blues managing just six wins out 14 in the league at Stamford Bridge.

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Chelsea also have no wins against the newly promoted sides at home this season, and it’s something Rosenior needs to find a solution to quickly.

Next up for Chelsea is back to back away games against Arsenal and Aston Villa, and if the Blues want Champions League football it looks like they will have to do it the hard way.

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