The mystery behind Chelsea captain Reece James’ first-half substitution during the Premier League clash against Everton has been unveiled.

NBC Sports, covering the game, reported that it was a hamstring issue that prompted the England international’s departure midway through the initial 45 minutes.

After being absent from the starting lineup in the last two games for various reasons, there was optimism about seeing James back among the XI selected by manager Mauricio Pochettino.

Whether his absence in the starting lineup was due to a fitness concern or perhaps a consequence of his recent red card against Newcastle United, he was relegated to the bench for the disappointing defeat to Manchester United.

However, James’ appearance against Everton was cut short without a clear explanation at the time. The subsequent revelation indicates that a hamstring problem led to the 24-year-old being replaced during the match.