Chelsea right-back Reece James suffered an injury during his club’s 2-0 victory over AC Milan in their Champions League game last night.
James had to come off after what is believed to be a knee injury. Ruben Loftus-Cheek replaced him.
Manager Graham Potter told football.london): “We are hoping he will be ok.
“We’ll need 24-48 hours because it’s too early to tell you anything more than that.”
Potter will hope that he can get James back soon. The 22-year-old is one of the most impressive, dependable and consistent players.
James has netted two goals and two assists this season. He is a lethal crossing and shooting outlet in attack and more than solid in defence.
The James injury is the only smear on a fantastic performance from Chelsea, although referee Daniel Siebert may have inadvertently helped the Blues.
The German referee sent Fikayo Tomori off in the 18th minute of the game for a pull on Mason Mount. It was a harsh call that left Stefano Pioli angry.
Chelsea scored the resulting penalty and took control of the game with a man advantage. Former Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud missed the chance to restore parity when he guided Brahim Diaz’s cross wide.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang doubled the lead for Chelsea, and the Blues never let go of their grip.
Chelsea could have added a third when Conor Gallagher rounded the goalkeeper. However, his shot hit the side of the net.
The Blues are now top of the group and well-placed to progress to the round of 16.
“Overall, we played well,” Potter added. “It was important to get the goal, and the penalty and red card changes the completion of the game.
“We started to make the ten men count, which I think we did quite well. Overall, we are delighted with the three points, the clean sheet and to score two goals too.”
Chelsea visit Aston Villa this weekend. It is another chance for the London side to take three points and strengthen their hold on a top-four spot in the Premier League.
