Posted by Chinenye on Fri 16th Oct, 2026 - tori.ng
Chelsea have suffered a major setback after their captain underwent knee surgery and faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
(Reece James. Photo credit: Vanguard News)
Chelsea captain Reece James is expected to miss about three months after minor surgery on a knee injury he picked up in training.
He was hurt last Friday, a day before Chelsea's 5-1 Premier League win over Bournemouth.
The club says the operation went well and James has started rehabilitation with its medical staff.
No return date has been announced.
He is likely to miss some tough fixtures, including Premier League games against Tottenham, Manchester United and Manchester City, and the Carabao Cup tie against Liverpool.
Chelsea play Everton on Saturday, host Tottenham on October 24, visit Liverpool on October 28 and welcome Manchester United on October 31.
James has had several spells out in recent seasons.
He played 29 Premier League games last season, his highest total since 2020-21, and was in England's World Cup squad.
He has made six appearances this season, including three league starts.
In March he signed a new six-year contract with Chelsea.