Chelsea’s James undergoes successful knee surgery

Chelsea captain, Reece James, has undergone successful surgery on a knee injury, the Premier League club announced on Friday.

The 26-year-old defender sustained the injury during training before Chelsea’s 5-1 victory over Bournemouth last weekend.

James missed the match as medical assessments were carried out, with the results confirming that surgery was necessary.

“The 26-year-old was absent from Saturday’s 5-1 victory over Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge while medical assessments took place following the injury suffered in training,” Chelsea said in a statement.

“Those assessments confirmed surgery would be the required course of action.

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“Reece has already begun his road to recovery and will be supported by the club’s medical department at Cobham during this rehabilitation phase.”

The England international has begun rehabilitation with Chelsea’s medical staff, but the club has not provided a timeframe for his return.

James has struggled with injuries over the past few seasons, missing several international tournaments with England since the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

However, his fitness record improved significantly last season, allowing him to play a prominent role in England’s World Cup campaign, which ended with a semi-final appearance and a bronze medal.

James was also among the players who withdrew from England duty during the most recent international break.

Chelsea, who are sixth in the Premier League, travel to Everton on Saturday before hosting Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United in their upcoming league fixtures. A trip to Liverpool in the Carabao Cup is scheduled between the two home matches.