Chelsea’s appeal against Reece James’ ban

The recent report has revealed that Chelsea’s bid to overturn Reece James’ four-match ban didn’t come out successful.

Recall that James was handed a straight red card for kicking Brighton striker, Joao Pedro during the Blues encounter with the Seagulls last season.

A recent report via Mail Sport hinted at a FA’s documents of the appeal which is a summary of the evidence submitted by the club and player.

Extract from the document claimed that James was “disoriented” after being fouled from behind, that Pedro “made contact” as he ran past, and that: “It had not been his intention to harm Mr Pedro, he was simply pushing him away with his foot.”

The Blues’ bid, however, didn’t go well with the FA’s independent regulatory commission who refused to buy the justification made on James’ behalf.

This means the English player will serve the rest of his four-game ban, due to this being his second red card of the campaign.

It also means Chelsea will play three matches next season without James, who sat out their final fixture against Bournemouth.

This is a blow for Chelsea newly appointed manager Enzo Maresca who is expected to take over on July 1.