England boss Gareth Southgate has warned Chelsea captain Reece James that he has taken a “risk” by opting out of the latest Three Lions squad ahead of the 2024 Euros.

James has struggled with injuries throughout his young career so far, and he was out of action recently with a knee problem. 

The defender is now fit again but declined a call-up to the England squad to face Malta and North Macedonia later this month to continue rebuilding full fitness.

Southgate has made it clear that he is not blaming James for trying to look after his own condition, but he would not hide the fact that the player has put himself at risk, as England are very well stocked at the right-back position, with the likes of Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier, and Trent Alexander-Arnold competing with the Chelsea star.

“I was hoping to call up Reece James but he doesn’t feel he’s quite ready,” Southgate said at a press conference on Thursday. “I understand that he’s had a long path back from a number of injuries. He is probably a bit cautious in that respect, but I can understand why.

“There is (a lot of talent ahead of James) and that is the risk. He’s only got one more squad before the Euros. So he knows that. We’ve got belief in what he can do.

“We did discuss (reporting for duty for team meetings), and he was very keen to make it clear: ‘Look, I don’t want you to think I don’t want to be there,” he said during a press conference on Thursday.

James may only have friendlies against Brazil and Belgium in March to earn his spot back in Southgate’s squad.