Graham Potter admits Reece James' knee injury will be a "big miss" for Chelsea. The England defender was ruled out for up to eight weeks on Saturday night in a club statement following scans.
James' World Cup chances with England are in major doubt and is now set to miss at least nine games before Christmas after he was forced off in the midweek Champions League win over AC Milan at the San Siro.
“It’s a big miss for us,” the head coach said. “We’re disappointed he’s out. We are going to have to deal with that and help him get back fit as quickly as we can.
READ MORE: Reece James breaks silence over Chelsea injury amid England World Cup fears
"I spoke to him yesterday. He’s disappointed to be out. It’s going to be a frustrating time for him. He’s going to need our support to get him back and fit.”
James had scans following Tuesday night's game that initially suggested the injury was not too bad, but further scans on Thursday at Cobham revealed the extent of the injury that will dent his World Cup chances for Gareth Southgate..
The knee ligament damage suffered halts an already impressive season for James who had been one of the Blues' best performers in his favoured right-wingback role, netting twice and creating two goals in the opening 12 games.
Chelsea face Aston Villa at Villa Park on Sunday afternoon as Potter's men hope to make it six unbeaten and five wins in a row. You can follow along with all the action on our live blog here.
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