- Chelsea captain Reece James is facing an extended spell on the sidelines after undergoing successful minor knee surgery following an injury in training.
- Manager Xabi Alonso confirmed the 26-year-old defender will be ruled out for several weeks, though he hopes James can return around the festive period.
- Alonso stated that James's injury will not force Chelsea to seek a replacement in the January transfer window.
- The defender missed Chelsea's recent 5-1 victory against Bournemouth and has not featured for the club since 12 September.
- James has already started his rehabilitation process under the supervision of Chelsea's medical department at Cobham.
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