Chelsea captain Reece James has had successful surgery on a knee injury, the club announced. The defender is 26 and has started rehabilitation with the club’s medical staff. No date has been set for his return.
James got hurt in training before Chelsea’s 5-1 win over Bournemouth last weekend. The club then decided he should have an operation.
Tough games ahead
Chelsea’s next match is away at Everton in the Premier League. After that they host London rivals Tottenham and then Manchester United. A Carabao Cup trip to Liverpool sits between those two home games. It is a demanding run to face without their captain.
A history of injuries
James has dealt with several injuries in recent seasons. They have caused him to miss a number of England’s international tournaments since the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Things got better last season. His fitness record improved a lot, and he played a major part in England’s World Cup campaign. England reached the semi-finals and later won the bronze medal match.
James was one of the players who pulled out of England duty during the most recent international break. The next break starts at the beginning of November. England are due to play Croatia at Wembley Stadium then.
Chelsea have not said how long the recovery might take, so his availability for the coming league and cup fixtures remains unclear.
Source: BBC Sport
