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Reece James could miss the 2022 World Cup

Reece James of Chelsea is substituted off after receiving medical treatment during the UEFA Champions League group E match between AC Milan and Chelsea FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on October 11, 2022 in Milan, Italy

Chelsea right-back Reece James is set for a spell on the sidelines after the injury he suffered against AC Milan in the Champions League, according to football.london.

James pulled up around the 66th minute after a challenge by Theo Hernandez. The Cobham academy graduate required treatment on the pitch and tried to continue. 

However, the 22-year-old went off for Cesar Azpilicueta two minutes later.

James joined his teammates on the pitch to celebrate after the full-time whistle and stayed in Milan on Wednesday to explore the city. The first scans showed positive results.

More extensive scans did not provide good news, and James could reportedly miss the 2022 World Cup.

Chelsea and James will decide whether he requires surgery. But with the World Cup around the corner, they could opt for conservative treatment.

The Blues will miss James, as he is one of the key components of their squad. He delivers consistent performances and they will struggle to replace him.

James is also the most well-rounded and in-form England right-back at the moment. He has two goals and two assists from 13 appearances this season.


He was impressive over the two Milan games, helping to shut down the dangerous Rafael Leao. In the second leg, he helped contain Leao and Hernandez.

His prowess in attack and sturdiness in defence is why Gareth Southgate prefers him over Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Despite an array of talents at right-back, Southgate will be sweating over James’ fitness. Kyle Walker just had surgery, while Trent Alexander-Arnold is also injured.

Newcastle United’s Kieran Trippier is the last man standing for Southgate, with Djed Spence yet to feature extensively for Antonio Conte.

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