Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers has confirmed that young fullback James Justin has suffered an ACL injury. The news strikes both Leicester and James Justin a cruel blow after enduring such a promising season in the Premier League.
When looking at other ACL injuries, it appears as though Justin’s season is unfortunately over and, with that, his chances of making Gareth Southgate’s England side.
Rodgers Confirms Extent of Justin Injury
Cruel Blow
With Ricardo Pereira out injured for the majority of the season, James Justin stepped up at the perfect moment for Leicester City. Even with Pereira back fit, the Englishman kept his place in the side. That, alone, points to the impact he was having.
The fact is, as Trent Alexander-Arnold and Reece James began to struggle, Justin quietly emerged as a potential option for Gareth Southgate. His versatility to play both fullback positions offered Southgate a vital squad player.
Yet, in football, nothing ever takes a smooth sailing path and, at the worst possible moment, Justin suffered the season-ending injury. He’ll be back firing for the Foxes again, that is undeniable, but, for now, Justin will be forced to watch on as the Foxes strive towards European football.
Chance for Leicester to Prove Squad Depth Once More
Last season, Leicester were in the driving seat for Champions League football and looked to be cruising towards their goal. One enforced break due to COVID-19 and a dip in energy later, however, and, they lost their once tight grasp on their chance to play on the biggest stage.
This season has been different; this time around, they have the squad depth, and, with that, the energy to interchange when needed without the risk of a dip in form.
At times this season, they’ve coped without Pereira, Caglar Soyuncu and Jamie Vardy. Now, they must prove their strength in depth once again after the untimely injury to James Justin.
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