Chelsea’s Reece James charged by FA for confronting referee

Chelsea captain Reece James has been charged for a breach of FA rules, which is alleged to have occurred in the aftermath of the club’s 1-0 defeat against Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon.

James has been out injured since a 1-1 draw at home to Liverpool on the opening day of the Premier League season, and wasn’t in Mauricio Pochettino’s matchday squad for the loss against Unai Emery’s side.

The charge relates to James’ behaviour in the tunnel after what was Chelsea’s third defeat in six Premier League outings this season.

“Reece James has been charged with a breach FA rule E3 following Chelsea’s Premier League against Aston Villa on Sunday, 24 September,” said a statement issued on Wednesday afternoon.

“It’s alleged that the defender used improper and/or insulting and/or abusive words and/or behaviour towards a match official in the tunnel after the game.

“Reece James has until Friday, 29 September, to provide a response to this charge.”

James was appointed captain of of his boyhood club during the summer, following the departure of Cesar Azpilicueta to Atletico Madrid.