Reece James has confirmed he is to miss the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, following a knee injury he sustained last month playing for Chelsea against AC Milan.
The 22-year-old featured for an hour at the San Siro before his withdrawal, with scans later revealing the full extent of his injury. Full-back was seen a strong position for England but Gareth Southgate's options are now more limited with injuries to James and other candidates on either side of defence.
Having made a positive start to life under Chelsea manager Graham Potter, James has scored two goals and registered two assists so far this term. With the domestic season set to continue in late December, just when could the defender return to action?
READ MORE: Chelsea's Reece James breaks silence on England squad World Cup heartbreak after Southgate call
What exact injury has James sustained?
James sustained a knee injury against AC Milan. Sprinting to keep up with Rafael Leao in the process, the former Wigan loanee went down awkwardly and failed to recover in the 62nd minute.
What has Potter said?
Speaking ahead of Wednesday's Carabao Cup tie against Manchester City, the Chelsea boss insisted that the defender is recovering well from the setback, despite his World Cup blow.
He said: "Reece was outside today having a little jog, but there is nothing to report in terms of anything else."There is no timeframe [to return]. It is just how he responds. We don't want to rush anything, and I certainly don't want to put any timescales on it. That is for him, the doctors, and physios."
What has James said?
James posted a message on social media on Wednesday afternoon saying he is 'devastated' to be missing the tournament.
The right-back posted: "Devastated. The minute I injured my knee, I knew the turn around to make the World Cup would be tight, but I always felt it was possible. "I've worked harder than I ever thought I could to give myself the best chance of going and truly believed I could help the team. I appreciate there was risk on both sides but it was one I was willing to take. Good luck to the boys. I'll be back soon. Stay safe & sending love."
When could he be back for Chelsea?
Switching his focus to a return in December, Chelsea's first game after the World Cup is against Bournemouth on December 27 at Stamford Bridge. James has been in Dubai with a member of Chelsea’s medical staff to speed up his recovery, and it is thought he will remain there to further speed up his return.
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