Chelsea captain Reece James hit out at negative comments regarding his latest injury setback after undergoing hamstring surgery.
The England right back limped off in the first half of Chelsea's 2-0 loss at Everton on Dec. 10 with a recurring hamstring injury and underwent an operation to try to solve the issue.
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It is James' third hamstring problem in the past year, prompting what he said had been negative and abusive messages toward him on social media.
"Since this injury I've had a good amount of support but significantly more hate and negativity," James wrote on Instagram on Thursday. "Believe me, I don't wanna be injured, I'm happiest when I'm playing football."
James added that his "recovery has started, both physically and mentally."
Neither James nor Chelsea have given a timeline for his return.
