Chelsea have confirmed that Reece James is set to miss up to one month out after suffering a setback to the knee injury that kept him out of the World Cup.
James lasted 53 minutes at Stamford Bridge before he felt discomfort in the same knee and was forced off. He left the stadium wearing a knee brace.
The 23-year-old underwent an assessment on Wednesday, with scan results confirming he faces another spell on the sidelines.
A Chelsea statement on Wednesday read: “Defender Reece James underwent assessment earlier today after being substituted during the second half of last night’s 2-0 Premier League victory over AFC Bournemouth due to a knee injury.
“Scan results have regrettably confirmed a setback for the 23-year-old, with Reece now set to be ruled out for up to a month.”
On Wednesday, James posted a statement on social media describing how “tough” this year has been for him.
“2022 has been the toughest year to date,” he wrote. “Just wanna thank you all for the support, none of you go unnoticed.
“It’s naturally effected [sic] me mentally, I’m currently just tryna deal with the cards I’ve been dealt. I hope your end of year is filled with peace, joy & happiness.
“Love you all, catch you next year.”
